Digital analysts are urging the government to increase its investment in Information and Communication Technology, as a way of showing its commitment to digitization.
The call came following a launch by government of the digital transformation road map for Uganda as the world at large embraces a shift towards digitization.
In Uganda for instance, a number of services have been digitized through electronic banking, electronic learning, electronic shopping and many more.
However, while the gradual shift is taking place, the analysts were cautious that government commitment is still lacking.
Allan Sempala Kigozi, the Head of Legal Unwanted Witness noted that the data costs are still extremely high for most Ugandans. He sighted that 1 GB costs 5000shs which makes it hard for Ugandans to keep up with.
“Our GB costs 5000shs, the highest in East Africa. A Ugandan will debate on whether to spend it on a meal or internet. We are not going to depend on the UN to take us to the promised land. We need to see commitment from our government.”
Not only that, the analysts expressed disappointment over sluggish internet speed which frustrates users.
Micheal Nyitegeka, the Director Refactory related to how most Ugandans have to wait for weekend promotions to afford data. According to him, such should not be happening since some uses for the internet cannot wait.
In addition, the analysts noted that digital regulations need to be revisited. Some of the regulations according to analysts are more intimidating than enticing for users.
Facebook for instance has been shut down for over two years and yet a common platform for entrepreneurship.
Meanwhile, just yesterday Sunday 20 August, the government of Somalia announced a ban on TikTok and Telegram as well as on an online betting app, saying they were being used by “terrorists” to spread propaganda.
