The UBOS 2024 National Population and Housing Census paints a vivid picture of Uganda’s development trajectory, with a strong emphasis on the challenges and opportunities in Information and Communication Technology (ICT). While ICT adoption in Uganda has made noticeable strides, the findings of the report reveal significant gaps that threaten to leave portions of the population behind. It is clear that if Uganda is to harness the transformative power of the digital revolution, bold and targeted investments in ICT are essential.
Globally, ICT serves as the backbone of modern development. It drives economic growth, fosters innovation, enhances education, and improves the delivery of healthcare and government services. For Uganda, bridging the digital divide is no longer a luxury but a necessity to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth. The census findings underscore why ICT should be at the center of Uganda’s national development agenda.
One of the most striking revelations from the UBOS report is the stark digital divide that persists across the country. While 43% of individuals aged 10 years and older own a mobile phone, only 9.2% access the internet. Rural areas, home to the majority of Ugandans, lag significantly, with just 4% of the population accessing the internet compared to 17% in urban centers. Moreover, the gender gap is evident, with 11% of men accessing the internet compared to only 8% of women. Such disparities highlight the pressing need to extend digital infrastructure and address inequalities in access.
Equally concerning is the limited use of the internet for productive activities. While the majority of users (67%) engage in social networking, only a small fraction utilizes the internet for educational purposes (16%) or business activities (13%). Furthermore, household ICT adoption remains minimal, with just 4% owning a personal computer. Radios continue to dominate as the primary source of information for 38% of households, underscoring the slow pace of integration of advanced ICT tools into everyday life.
The report also reveals minimal engagement with digital services. Only 2% of individuals access online government services, and activities such as internet banking, e-commerce, or online advertisements remain niche pursuits. These trends point to a broader underutilization of ICT’s transformative potential and the need for interventions to promote digital inclusion.
Addressing these challenges and unlocking the opportunities ICT presents require immediate and strategic action. The government must prioritize investments in ICT infrastructure, especially in rural areas, to expand broadband and improve mobile network coverage. Affordable internet access is key to ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind in Uganda’s digital journey.
Digital literacy programs are also crucial. Training initiatives should target all demographic groups, particularly women and youth, to equip them with the skills needed to navigate and thrive in the digital economy. Bridging the gender divide in ICT access will empower women and enable broader economic participation.
Additionally, integrating ICT into education can have transformative effects. Digital tools and e-learning platforms can enrich education outcomes and prepare Uganda’s youth for the demands of a digital future. Equipping schools with ICT resources and training teachers to incorporate technology into teaching will lay the foundation for a digitally skilled workforce.
Uganda’s government also has an opportunity to enhance governance and service delivery through ICT. By improving access to e-government platforms, the state can streamline service delivery, enhance transparency, and foster trust in public institutions. Investments in these areas will not only benefit citizens but also position Uganda as a regional leader in digital governance.
The role of the private sector in driving ICT development cannot be overstated. Public-private partnerships can accelerate the deployment of ICT solutions, foster innovation, and create an enabling environment for tech startups. Supporting local digital enterprises will generate employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
The time to act is now—delaying investments in ICT risks widening existing disparities and missing out on the vast opportunities of the digital age.
