Uganda equips local communicators with laptops to boost transparency 💻🇺🇬

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As digital communication becomes a core pillar of modern governance, Uganda’s Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and National Guidance is stepping up efforts to strengthen local government communication. The ministry has distributed laptops to 176 communication officers across districts, municipalities, and cities nationwide—an initiative aimed at improving public information delivery and bringing government action closer to citizens.

Digital tools to modernize local communication

The handover ceremony took place in Kampala at the Imperial Royale Hotel, under the leadership of Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. Through this initiative, the government seeks to equip local communicators with digital tools that match the realities of today’s information landscape.

Local communication officers play a crucial role in relaying government policies, programs, and development projects at the grassroots level. For years, however, many have operated with limited resources, relying mainly on press releases and traditional print media to reach the public.

That model no longer meets citizens’ expectations. Today’s audiences demand fast, accessible updates delivered through digital platforms such as WhatsApp, X, TikTok, and Facebook. Recognizing this shift, the ministry has chosen to invest in equipment aligned with contemporary communication habits.

Keeping citizens informed about government action

According to Dr. Zawedde, strengthening local communication has become a strategic priority for the government. Communication, she emphasized, is no longer just about sharing information—it is now a cornerstone of good governance, transparency, and accountability.

Across Uganda, numerous public projects are underway, including school construction, road rehabilitation, the establishment of health centers, computer labs, and community-based programs. Yet many of these initiatives remain poorly understood or largely invisible to the communities they are meant to serve.

With access to laptops, communication officers can now document these projects more effectively, produce digital content, and share accurate, timely updates on government initiatives. The goal is clear: ensure citizens know what the government is doing, where projects are being implemented, and who directly benefits from them.

Professionalism and responsibility at the core

Ben Kumumanya, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government, urged beneficiaries to demonstrate professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility. He called on local communicators to fully embrace their role in Uganda’s socio-economic transformation by reporting government actions clearly, accurately, and responsibly.

However, government officials stressed that equipment alone is not enough. Dr. Zawedde encouraged communicators to adopt a proactive mindset—one that goes beyond posting updates to actively engaging with citizens, addressing concerns, and countering misinformation.

To that end, officers are expected to verify information before publication and respond swiftly to false or misleading narratives. This approach is intended to build public trust and ensure reliable, credible communication at the local level.

Part of Uganda’s national digital strategy

This initiative forms part of Uganda’s broader national digital acceleration agenda led by the Ministry of ICT. The strategy focuses on leveraging digital tools to promote more transparent, inclusive, and citizen-centered governance.

The ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to continued training, coordination, and support for public sector communicators. In the long term, the objective is to build a cohesive and effective government communication system—one capable of clearly demonstrating the real-world impact of public policies on citizens’ lives.

With this latest investment in digital equipment, Uganda marks another step forward in modernizing institutional communication, placing technology at the service of public information and closer government-citizen engagement.

👉🏾What’s your take? Do you think strengthening the digital capacity of local communicators is key to improving transparency and governance across Africa?