President Yoweri Museveni has called on young innovators in the country to use Information Communication Technology to create wealth and jobs.
“This is a good place for business. You should be able to create wealth and jobs through ICT,” he said.
The President was today speaking at the launching of the 1st ICT Expo in the country at the Uganda Institute of Information and Communication Technology in Nakawa, Kampala. Organized by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the Expo has the objective of showcasing Uganda’s Innovation potential. The Expo has brought together different stakeholders in the ICT Innovation Eco-System including Fintech Innovators, start-ups and various government agencies.
President Museveni noted that East Africa is full of potential for business since it is still in need of ICT solutions. He, therefore, urged Ugandans, especially the youth, to take advantage of the available infrastructure and solve societal needs.
Mr. Museveni challenged local innovators to not only learn how to use the new gadgets but also make an effort in developing their own to help in the banning of imports as well as creating jobs for the citizens. He emphasized the mandatory use of online procurement so that every transaction is traceable to stamp out corruption.
He saluted the innovators and pledged more government support to the sector once they fully utilize the already available funds.
Outgoing Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, thanked President Museveni for coming to interact with young people. He said that gone are the days when the country was relying on imported Applications saying that Ugandans are now able to develop and use their own which will save both money and jobs.