THE Ugandan government has joined forces with the World Bank to introduce the Universal Digital Acceleration Programme, aiming to provide internet access to refugee communities in Uganda, which hosts a significant number of refugees in Africa.
Uganda is renowned for being one of the top countries worldwide in terms of hosting refugees, with the largest refugee population in Africa. As of June 2022, Uganda provided a home to more than 1.5 million refugees, predominantly originating from South Sudan. The districts of Adjumani and Yumbe in northern Uganda alone accommodated approximately one-third of all refugees.
Commencing on July 1, 2023, the five-year programme intends to equip these refugees with essential digital skills, establish new educational infrastructure, and teach them languages to enhance their employability.
Amina Zawedde, Uganda’s Permanent Secretary for ICT and National Guidance, made the announcement during an event co-hosted by MTN Uganda, the Uganda Small Scale Industries Association, and Centenary Industries Limited. The collaboration aimed to raise USh15 million ($4,000) to expand the computer lab at Refugee and Hope International, a non-profit refugee shelter in Kampala, Uganda.
Refugee and Hope International provides language instruction, entrepreneurial training, and counselling to individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder due to crises in their
home countries.
Zawedde expressed optimism about the programme, highlighting the significance of internet access for last-mile communities such as refugee camps. She emphasised that the availability of the internet in facilities like government buildings, hospitals, and schools would enable everyone to utilise it more effectively.
In a significant contribution, MTN donated an ICT lab to Refugee and Hope International, empowering them with the necessary tools for entrepreneurial success through training and mentorship.
The Universal Digital Acceleration Programme marks a crucial step towards bridging the digital divide and enhancing opportunities for refugees in Uganda, enabling them to acquire vital sk
ills and access information that can positively impact their lives.
