Digital transformation is reshaping societies, offering immense opportunities through technologies like AI, blockchain, and IoT. Yet in Uganda—as in many developing countries—a persistent digital divide hinders access to these benefits, especially for women, rural communities, and persons with disabilities. Bridging this gap is vital for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Uganda is taking important steps through innovation and policy to ensure that digital technology empowers all citizens.
Uganda has made notable strides in expanding digital infrastructure, with mobile phone penetration exceeding 70%. Yet internet usage remains relatively low, with only 29% of Ugandans having access. A stark urban-rural divide persists, with only 9% of rural Ugandans accessing the internet, highlighting a significant digital gap. While urban areas benefit from better connectivity and higher digital literacy, rural communities face major barriers related to infrastructure and affordability. As per the Mobile Gender Gap Report 2023, gender inequalities further compound the issue: only 19% of women use the internet compared to 27% of men, making men 43% more likely to be online. These gaps are driven largely by affordability constraints, digital illiteracy, and entrenched socio-cultural norms.
Uganda’s initiatives for digital inclusion
Recognizing the barriers to digital inclusion, Uganda’s public and private sectors have implemented innovative solutions to expand access. These include affordable internet solutions, community-based digital literacy programs and assistive technologies for marginalized groups. To extend connectivity in underserved regions, the government, partnering with private providers, has expanded broadband infrastructure through projects like the National Backbone Infrastructure led by the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), an autonomous body for overseeing Information Technology services in Uganda. Since its launch, the project has significantly increased rural broadband coverage and reduced internet costs by over 57%. Telecom providers such as MTN Uganda and Airtel have also supported access by offering affordable data bundles and free access to educational content, boosting opportunities for online learning.
Equipping citizens with digital skills remains central to closing the divide. Programs under the Digital Uganda Vision target women, youth, and rural communities with tailored training. A standout example is the Rural ICT Hubs program, which provides free training and computer access at community centers. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics and partner agencies, participants report improved employability outcomes and new income streams, such as freelance work. Notably, over 9% of rural youth and women who completed these courses secured either part-time employment or income-generating opportunities within six months.
The Uganda Communications Commission’s (UCC) “Girls in ICT” initiative has trained more than 3,000 women in the informal sector across 15 districts, enabling them to increase productivity and expand their business through digital tools, including mobile banking and e-commerce. These outcomes highlight how targeted digital literacy programs, particularly those combining ICT access, mentorship and continued support, can substantially enhance job readiness and improve livelihoods.
Socio-economic impact of digital inclusion
Digital inclusion in Uganda is closely tied to social and economic development. A 10% increase in broadband penetration is linked to a 1.2% rise in GDP, with transformative effects in education, employment, healthcare, and financial services. E-learning platforms like Kolibri and the National eLearning Platform have expanded access to quality education—particularly in rural areas—by providing free digital content, a shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital platforms such as Jumia Uganda, SafeBoda, Upwork, and Fiverr have unlocked new employment and entrepreneurship pathways, contributing to a 20% increase in youth employment. In healthcare, services like Rocket Health and mHealth Uganda deliver virtual consultations and maternal care to remote communities. Meanwhile, mobile money solutions from MTN and Airtel now reach over 80% of the population, facilitating savings, credit access, and everyday transactions. Fintech platforms like PayWay and Eversend further broaden financial inclusion for unbanked groups.
Despite this progress, Uganda continues to face structural challenges: high device costs, unreliable electricity, cybersecurity threats, and digital literacy gaps hinder the country’s digital transformation. Addressing these challenges requires a coordinated strategy aligned with Uganda’s Vision 2040. This includes targeted education programs, subsidized internet access, rural broadband expansion, and stronger digital accessibility standards. Equally critical is the development of inclusive digital infrastructure, including interoperable ID systems and secure digital payment platforms that support access to e-government, health and financial services. Strengthening institutional capacity, ensuring regulatory clarity, and promoting open data standards are essential to building trust and accountability in digital systems.
Research by the GSMA and World Bank shows that bundling connectivity with locally relevant content and digital skills training significantly improves uptake, especially among women and youth. Fiscal strategies such as tax incentives for device manufacturers and internet service providers can lower costs and accelerate rural connectivity. Public-private partnerships are also vital, not only in financing but in co-developing user-centered, scalable digital solutions. At its core, advancing digital equity is not merely a technological priority but a socio-economic imperative for inclusive growth.
