DIGITAL INCLUSION: NITA-U EXTENDS INTERNET CONNECTIVITY TO HOST COMMUNITIES AND REFUGEES IN ADJUMANI.

By Bazio Doreen.

The Government of Uganda, through the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), has launched the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project—Government Network (UDAP-GovNet) to enhance internet connectivity for host and refugee communities in Adjumani District.

The UDAP-GovNet seeks, among other objectives, to promote digital inclusion of host communities and refugees through improving the availability of core digital infrastructure in 12 remote refugee host districts, addressing digital demand-side barriers including the affordability of mobile devices, and improving basic digital skills.

Under the two-year project that is funded by the World Bank/IDA up to the cost of US$ 200 million, 80 telecommunications masts and 24 telecenters will be established across the country. In Adjumani, a telecommunications mast for voice and data services will be set up in Nyumanzi Refugee Settlement, and telecenters will be established in Maaji and Pagirinya refugee settlements at public institutions to enable refugees to access free internet through Wi-Fi hot spots.  

While making opening remarks during the launch at the District Council Hall on April 23, 2025, the District Chairperson, Hon. Anyama Ben, thanked NITA-U and the government for choosing Adjumani district as one of the beneficiaries, observing that this is a great opportunity for the district because it hosts about 240,000 refugees who constitute half of the district population. 

“It is not easy to sit in Kampala and decide to choose people that you have never seen. I thank you for that. Adjumani District is unique because half of its population constitutes refugees. We have different cultures, but we are staying together,” Hon. Anyama observed.

The Chief Administrative Officer, Ocen James Andrew, also thanked the government for creating an enabling environment for technology advancement that is enabling local governments to promptly and timely deliver quality services to the people.

“At a certain point years ago, we didn’t have telephones; searching for someone was very difficult, but that is history now. This project is going to be a milestone for underserved and vulnerable communities. Technology has made it easy for rural districts like ours to easily do and receive payments,” Ocen explained.

On his part, Abdul Ramathan, who represented the Refugee Desk Officer—OPM Pakele, said that many refugees struggle to meet their basic needs, and thus some can’t afford to buy digital devices while others struggle to buy data bundles. He also observed that many refugees are illiterate and therefore lack basic digital skills, and thus the project will support them in not only accessing the internet but also gaining knowledge on digital safety and security.

“Some refugees have never held any phones/computers in their lives because they can’t afford them. There is a need for them to learn basic digital skills but also know how to overcome challenges in cyber and digital security,” Abdul said. 

According to Josephine Olivia, the UDAP-GovNet Project Manager, the overall goal of the project is indeed to bring digital services closer to the people. She added that the telecommunications masts will be supported by a backbone of fiber optic cables and complemented by Wi-Fi hot spots and shared digital services to ensure widespread connectivity.

Josephine also said that the project is in line with the National Development Plan III (FY 2020/2021–2024/2025) and the World Bank’s ‘Building Back Better’ initiative to strengthen economic resilience and digital governance.

The UDAP-GovNet is a government initiative focused on enhancing digital connectivity, expanding e-government services, and promoting digital inclusion across Uganda. The project aims to bridge digital gaps and accelerate economic growth through technology adoption. The project is led by the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U) in collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance (MoICT&NG), Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR), and private sector partners. Under the project, NITA-U and its partners will establish 80 telecommunications.  

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