Uganda has launched the fifth phase of its National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) project in Moroto, northeastern Uganda, as part of strategic plans to enhance the country’s digital infrastructure and connectivity. The project inaugurated on December 4, is aimed at extending Internet access to underserved regions, reducing costs, and contributing to the broader goal of digital transformation across Uganda.
At the launch, President Yoweri Museveni thanked the Chinese government for its continued support through soft loans, particularly via the Import-Export Bank (EXIM).
“I thank the government of China for supporting a number of projects in Uganda using soft loans through the EXIM bank, including the NBI, which we have extended,” President Museveni said.
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Reducing the digital divide in Uganda
The fifth phase of the NBI is being implemented by Huawei Technologies, with funding from China’s EXIM Bank, as part of the collaboration to bridge Uganda’s digital divide. This new phase will bring significant improvements in connectivity to remote areas of Uganda, which have long faced challenges in accessing high-quality internet services.
Impact on Uganda’s economy and digital landscape
According to Wang Jianxun, Counselor for Economic and Commercial Affairs at the Chinese Embassy in Uganda, China’s cooperation with Uganda is aligned with the country’s developmental needs. He emphasized the long-term nature of the partnership, stating, “China’s cooperation with Uganda follows the needs of Uganda’s development. We are looking forward to a stronger and closer relationship between China and Uganda in the coming years.”
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Driving digital inclusion for all
Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister of ICT and National Guidance, emphasised the importance of digital infrastructure in driving economic growth, improving service delivery in sectors like healthcare and education, and fostering overall socio-economic development. “We are committed to investing in ICT as a key pillar for national development,” Baryomunsi said.
Gerald Oola, Huawei Technologies Uganda’s Solution Manager, highlighted the crucial role that the fifth phase of the NBI will play in advancing digital inclusion. “The project’s focus on digital inclusion will ensure that even the most remote communities can benefit from the advantages of digital transformation,” Oola explained.
This expansion is expected to reduce the digital divide, particularly between rural and urban populations, and provide greater access to essential services like telemedicine and online education.
As Uganda moves forward with its digital agenda, the ongoing partnership with China and Huawei is vital in ensuring the success and sustainability of the NBI project, further positioning the country as a leader in Africa’s digital transformation.
Edited.