The future of Uganda’s digital economy, powered by mobile financial services and driven by artificial intelligence, hinges on a single factor: collective cybersecurity. This was the definitive takeaway from the EastCon Cybersecurity Symposium held at the Nakawa ICT Innovation Hub , under the theme: “Securing the Future: The Rise of AI.”
MTN MoMo, represented by its CEO, Richard Yego , joined a crucial gathering of thought leaders, regulators, and security experts to emphasise that collaboration is the strongest defense against the rapidly evolving landscape of cyber threats.
For over 16 years, MTN MoMo has been central to Uganda’s journey of financial inclusion, empowering millions through mobile financial services. In his remarks, Yego reaffirmed that protecting these users is now inextricably linked to the company’s core mission. “For MTN MoMo, cybersecurity remains a central part of our mission,” Yego stated, adding, “Our commitment to protecting users through advanced systems, education, and partnerships remains steadfast.”
He noted that as digital platforms grow, so does the need for robust security. Yego explained that the rise of AI, while offering immense potential, also presents new vectors for sophisticated attacks.
The consensus at the symposium was clear: building a resilient digital future requires more than just better technology; it demands a culture of unified awareness and defense.
The symposium highlighted that the challenge of securing the future cannot be met by any single entity. It requires synchronised effort across the entire ecosystem as follows;
- Service Providers (MTN MoMo): Investing in smarter, AI-enabled detection and prevention systems.
- Regulators and Government: Establishing clear legal frameworks and promoting data governance.
- Law Enforcement: Enhancing capacity to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes effectively.
Emmanuel Chagara, CEO of Milima Security, underscored the urgency of the moment. He reminded attendees that as AI reshapes the world, protecting the nation’s financial, intellectual, and digital assets has never been more critical. He emphasised that “…the call for collaboration is not just technical; it is strategic. By sharing threat intelligence and coordinating responses, the financial sector can stay ahead of criminal syndicates that often operate across borders.”
Held during Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the symposium served as a potent reminder for Uganda to embrace innovation responsibly.
The key insight is that digital inclusion, which means bringing more people into the formal financial system, is fundamentally undermined if users fear for the security of their money.
To avoid this scenario, Yego revealed that MTN MoMo’s leadership role, as part of the Country Management Committee (CMC), emphasises that cybersecurity is now a top-tier business franchise and strategy concern, not just an IT issue.
The conclusion drawn by industry leaders is that by moving from isolated defense mechanisms to a shared, collaborative framework, Uganda can ensure that it innovates safely and secures the promise of digital inclusion for all its citizens.