Minister Baryomunsi Outlines Vision for a Digitally Transformed Uganda
The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, delivered a powerful keynote address at the official opening of the 9th National Conference on Communications (NCC 2025), calling upon Ugandans to embrace digital technology as a tool for innovation, responsible citizenship, and national development. His address set the tone for a landmark gathering that united policymakers, innovators, scholars, and students under the shared mission of building a smarter, more connected Uganda.
Championing Digital Innovation for Development
In his speech, Dr. Baryomunsi reaffirmed the government’s strong commitment to transforming Uganda into a digitally empowered nation, guided by Vision 2040, the Digital Uganda Vision, and the National Development Plan IV. He described digital innovation as the “new engine of development” that has the power to drive socio-economic growth and bridge the country’s service delivery gaps.
“As a country, Uganda recognizes the transformative role of digital technologies in accelerating socio-economic development,” he said. “By leveraging innovation, we can enhance service delivery, create employment, and empower communities with practical, home-grown solutions.”
The Minister emphasized that digital transformation is not a distant aspiration but a practical roadmap for national progress. He noted that when strategically implemented, ICT can revolutionize agriculture through smart technologies, improve education through digital learning, strengthen health systems through e-health platforms, and advance financial inclusion through mobile innovation.
He further highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to expand connectivity, support innovation hubs, and integrate ICT in public service delivery, ensuring that no Ugandan is left behind in the digital revolution.
Commending Strategic Partnerships
Dr. Baryomunsi applauded the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) for its leadership in organizing the 9th NCC and commended the Commission’s strategic partnerships with ISBAT University and Gulu University, which jointly hosted the event.
“I commend the Uganda Communications Commission, academia, industry, and development partners for creating this vital knowledge-sharing platform,” he stated. “Let this conference be a catalyst for actionable outcomes that position Uganda as a leader in digital transformation across the region.”
He emphasized that collaboration between regulators, universities, and industry players is the foundation of a sustainable innovation ecosystem. By uniting researchers, educators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, Uganda can develop home-grown solutions that respond directly to the needs of its people.
The Minister praised universities for their role in nurturing research, incubating young innovators, and transforming knowledge into practical solutions. He noted that this spirit of collaboration aligns perfectly with the country’s goal of achieving digital inclusivity and resilience through collective action.
A Message to the Youth: Use Social Media Wisely
Addressing the youth directly, Dr. Baryomunsi urged young Ugandans to use digital platforms, particularly social media, constructively and responsibly. He cautioned against using online spaces to spread negativity or attack public leaders, instead encouraging young people to focus on creativity, innovation, and learning.
“Use these powerful tools for innovation, for business, and for learning,” he advised. “Social media should be used to share knowledge, promote ideas, and build communities—not to make noise or abuse leaders. Focus on development, because the future belongs to those who use technology wisely.”
The Minister emphasized that Uganda’s digital transformation depends on how constructively the youth engage with technology. He called upon them to become active participants in shaping solutions for their communities rather than passive consumers of information.
He further noted that responsible use of digital media would not only protect Uganda’s social fabric but also amplify the voices of young innovators striving to make meaningful contributions to society.
A Call to Action for Uganda’s Digital Future
In conclusion, Hon. Baryomunsi called on all participants to ensure that the conference outcomes translate into tangible progress for Uganda’s innovation ecosystem. He urged researchers, entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers to transform ideas discussed at the event into scalable projects that create jobs, strengthen governance, and improve quality of life.
“Together, let us continue to innovate for sustainability, resilience, and inclusive growth,” he declared. “Digital innovation must not remain a topic of discussion—it must become a force that drives Uganda’s development forward.”
His closing message captured the spirit of the 9th National Communication Conference: that innovation must be people-centred, inclusive, and sustainable. The Minister’s call resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring renewed commitment to Uganda’s digital transformation journey.
In this conference, ICT Clubs from secondary schools across Uganda also presented their award-winning projects, showcasing how young innovators are using technology to solve real community challenges. These ICT Clubs are funded by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and trained and supported by KAWA Uganda, under the national effort to build a digitally skilled and innovation-driven generation.
