UCC, BUSOGA KINGDOM SIGN MOU TO ADVANCE DIGITAL INCLUSION

KAMPALA, July 02, 2026 – The Uganda Communications Commission and Busoga Kingdom have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding to accelerate digital transformation, expand ICT infrastructure, and equip young people from across the Busoga sub-region with practical digital skills.

The partnership, formalised by the heads of the two institutions at UCC headquarters in Bugolobi on Thursday, seeks to strengthen collaboration in ICT development, digital literacy, innovation, digital infrastructure, and the preservation of Busoga’s rich cultural heritage through digitisation.

The MoU builds on a series of engagements initiated earlier this year, following a visit by the UCC Executive Director, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, to the Busoga Kingdom.

Under the five-year partnership, UCC and the Busoga Kingdom will work together to establish ICT hubs, computer laboratories, and community resource centres across the Busoga sub-region. These facilities are expected to provide communities, especially young people, with access to digital tools, internet connectivity, and practical ICT training that will improve employability, support entrepreneurship, and increase participation in the digital economy.

The MoU further aims to support the digitization of Busoga’s cultural heritage, ensuring that valuable historical records, traditions, and indigenous knowledge are preserved for future generations while also leveraging digital technologies to enhance tourism.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Hon. Nyombi Thembo described the partnership as a strategic investment in the shared digital future of Busoga and Uganda. He noted that bringing technology closer to communities is essential for unlocking economic opportunities, improving service delivery, and ensuring that no Ugandan is left behind in the country’s digital transformation journey.

“The future belongs to digitally empowered communities. Through this partnership, we are not only expanding ICT infrastructure but also creating opportunities for innovation, skills development, and economic growth across the Busoga sub-region,” he said.

Hon. Nyombi Thembo further emphasized that digital inclusion remains one of UCC’s key priorities, adding that partnerships with cultural institutions are critical in extending the benefits of technology to grassroots communities while promoting Uganda’s cultural values and heritage.

The Busoga Kingdom delegation, led by the Second Deputy Katukiro, Owek. Osman Noor welcomed the partnership, describing it as a significant milestone in the kingdom’s efforts to modernise service delivery and empower its people through digital technology.

Accompanied by the cultural institution’s Attorney General, Alex Luganda, Mr Noor reaffirmed Busoga kingdom’s commitment to working closely with UCC to ensure the successful implementation of the initiatives outlined in the document.

Leaders from both institutions expressed confidence that the partnership will open new opportunities for education, ICT innovation, entrepreneurship, and employment, especially among young people who continue to face challenges accessing digital resources.

The collaboration also reflects a growing recognition of the important role information and communication technology plays in driving national development. By combining UCC’s expertise in ICT regulation and digital development with the Busoga Kingdom’s strong community reach, the two institutions have laid the foundation for a long-term partnership that will empower communities, advance digital inclusion, and position Busoga as a key contributor to Uganda’s growing digital economy.