Kampala, Uganda | NOW THEN DIGITAL — Uganda took over the leadership of the African Advanced Level Telecommunications Institute (AFRALTI) Governing Council from Kenya. This role rotates among member states.
Mr. Nnyombi Thembo, Executive Director of Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), will chair AFRALTI for the next year. AFRALTI is an inter-governmental organization supporting ICT development in Sub-Saharan Africa through training, consultancy, and research.
Chris Baryomunsi, Minister for ICT and National Guidance, oversaw the weeklong meeting hosted by Uganda in Entebbe.
AFRALTI is also an accredited training institute of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
In his speech, the UCC ED told delegates Uganda remains committed to “leaving no one behind”. He urged member states to provide targeted support without conditions to countries in need.
He added, “Uganda is proud to chair the council.”
“I’ll build on my predecessors’ successes and explore new areas, especially data analytics capacity building. Data Analytics underpins artificial intelligence – that’s the key message for data handlers,” he stated.
The gathering in Kampala enables attendees to exchange concepts and experiences regarding strategic contribution to the ICT sector’s advancement through personnel development in their nations.
Mr. Thembo noted the prohibitive internet cost as another obstacle hindering Uganda’s digital transformation journey. He aims to collaborate with AFRALTI member states to tackle this issue collectively.
Thembo remarked, “Internet expenses soar due to technology’s rapid evolution, compelling telecom operators to invest heavily in advancements like 5G and 6G. However, while the capacity of 5G and 6G is substantial, to recoup costs, companies must charge exorbitantly. Thus, telecom firms invest substantially to stay ahead, but internet adoption remains low.”
He added that the limited smartphone penetration also contributes to low internet uptake, necessitating higher data costs.
“In Uganda, penetration is merely 20%, and when this rate is low, data costs remain elevated. While the cost has fallen to around $60 per Mbps monthly, we need to reduce it to at least $20 per Mbps monthly.”
The Governing Council comprises representatives from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique, Eswatini, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and The Gambia.
AFRALTI has its Governing Council as the highest decision-maker. Yearly, they meet to review performance, strategy, and sustainability of this institution.
Dr. Baryomunsi, the ICT Minister, stated Uganda’s government takes actions to make smart devices and internet cheaper. “Taxes are being waived to encourage local tech firms manufacturing and assembling devices within Uganda,” he explained.
Two companies have commenced local phone assembly – Simi Mobile at Namanve Industrial Park and Mione in Mbale Industrial Park. “Their locally assembled mobiles sell at lower prices than imported ones,” Baryomunsi said.
“This will increase smart device penetration, making them affordable even for local people.”
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🇺🇬 is honored to host the 67th AFRALTI #Governing Council,bringing together member states for a dynamic exchange of ideas + collaboration in advancing ICT excellence. @AFRALTI is an intergovernmental organization established to spearhead #ICT development efforts in Africa. pic.twitter.com/neX0OPbBFm
— UCC (@UCC_Official) March 11, 2024
The 67th @AFRALTI Governing Council continues at the Imperial Golf View Hotel in Entebbe until 15th March 2024.#AFRALTIGoverningCouncil@MoICT_Ug pic.twitter.com/AwRSPT5SvU
— UCC (@UCC_Official) March 13, 2024
