Kampala, Tuesday 13th June 2023 – Today, Unwanted Witness has organized a webinar titled “Investment in ICT as an Engine for the Enjoyment of Digital Rights in Uganda”

The webinar will start at exactly 2:00 pm {EAT} and will take approximately 90 minutes. The webinar seeks to explore the benefits of investing in ICT as an engine to promote digital rights in Uganda and it focuses on the opportunities that adequate investment in ICT presents for the promotion and protection of digital rights.

The webinar will bring a better understanding among the stakeholders on the importance of adequate investment in ICT for the promotion of digital rights in Uganda, and enhance knowledge among the policymakers and government officials on the need for increased budget allocation.

The Government of Uganda recognized the critical role of ICT in driving the country’s socio-economic transformation and has articulated a bold vision for the digital future of Uganda in the form of the 2040 Digital Vision and National Development Plan 3. This vision aims to leverage the transformative power of ICT to improve the lives of Ugandans, enhance the competitiveness of the economy, and promote good governance and human rights protection.

To achieve this vision, Uganda needs to prioritize the development of a robust digital infrastructure, including broadband connectivity, digital literacy, and e-government services. This requires significant investment in ICT infrastructure and human resource development, as well as the creation of an enabling policy and regulatory environment that promotes innovation, competition, digital inclusion, and digital rights. However, this can only be realized if there is more investment in the ICT sector.

In her remarks, Ms. Dorothy Mukasa, Executive Director – Unwanted Witness explained that “Investment in ICT is not just a financial endeavor; it is an investment in the empowerment of individuals and the safeguarding of their digital rights. She added that by harnessing the transformative power of technology, we can pave the way for a future where every Ugandan can enjoy the full benefits of the digital world while upholding their fundamental rights and freedoms.”

The discussion from the webinar will identify opportunities for investment in ICT for digital rights in Uganda and increase collaboration among stakeholders for promoting and protecting digital rights in Uganda. It will feature renowned experts, human rights advocates, policymakers, and government officials who will share their insights and experiences. The panel is comprised of:

1. Dorothy Mukasa is the Executive Director of Unwanted Witness Uganda, a prominent organization dedicated to promoting digital rights and online freedoms in Uganda. With her passion for digital rights advocacy and extensive experience in the field, Dorothy has played a pivotal role in shaping policies and advocating for the protection of citizens’ rights in the digital realm in Uganda and beyond.
2. Michael Ocero: He serves as Ag. Commissioner for E-Services at the Ministry of ICT & NG handling policy development issues in the ICT services spectrum. Involved in policy formulation to handle issues of cyber security and development of the ICT services ecosystem. He previously served as a Principal Network Administrator and ICT lecturer at Technical College.
3. Grace Githaiga: The Convener of the Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) and an esteemed researcher and advocate for internet governance and digital rights in Africa. Her expertise in shaping policies and promoting an open, inclusive, and rights-based digital ecosystem will greatly contribute to our discussion.
4. Dr. Martin Mubangizi: A data scientist and the acting head of the UN Global Pulse Lab Kampala. With his expertise in data analysis and his work with the United Nations, Dr. Mubangizi brings a unique perspective on how ICT investments can drive socio-economic development and enhance digital rights in Uganda.
5. Lucrezia Biteete: With over 10 years of experience, Lucrezia has founded successful ventures like Laboremus and Refactsory, and currently works with GIZ Uganda and D4D Hub, an initiative by the European Commission and African Union. Her deep knowledge of the industry and commitment to inclusive digital transformation makes her a valuable addition to our panel.

This webinar will shed light on the path toward a more inclusive and rights-based digital ecosystem. We invite you to be part of this event.
Click the registration link below to secure your spot: https://bit.ly/ICTBudgetWebinar