Uganda's Digital Economy: Shifting Focus from Access to Opportunity

The third State of the Digital Economy (SODE) conference, themed “Beyond Connectivity: Turning Access into Opportunity,” has kicked off with a strong call for Uganda to redefine its digital progress. Joy Mwangi, Chief Marketing and Ventures Officer at Next Media, urged the nation to measure its digital transformation not just by internet penetration, but by its capacity to generate jobs, strengthen businesses, and improve livelihoods.

ueva>Mwangi emphasized that Uganda has reached a pivotal stage where conversations about digital connectivity must translate into concrete actions that yield economic value. The conference brings together key stakeholders, including government officials, tech companies, innovators, and development partners, to explore how digital access can fuel inclusive economic growth.

ueva>“We must own these conversations, create change and build systems that work for the economy,” Mwangi stated, highlighting the need for proactive engagement in shaping the digital future. This sentiment set the tone for discussions, focusing on how citizens, businesses, and institutions can benefit economically from digital technologies.

ueva>Mwangi also touched upon the role of NextCom, a digital-first agency assisting organizations in engaging consumers via digital platforms. The agency offers a suite of services, from creative design to social media strategy and analytics, stressing the importance of adapting to evolving consumer behavior. The Next Creata Hub and the Next Creata Programme, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, are initiatives aimed at equipping young Ugandans with digital and content creation skills, transforming mobile phone usage into job opportunities.

ueva>Addressing the rise of artificial intelligence, Mwangi encouraged a perspective of AI as an enabler of innovation and efficiency, rather than a job threat. “The question is no longer whether AI will change jobs. The question is who is ready to use it,” she posited, viewing AI as a tool to create more opportunities. SODE continues to serve as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration to strengthen Uganda’s digital economy.

Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/358903/ai-is-an-opportunity-for-those-ready-to-adapt-says-joy-mwangi