Uganda must bridge digital divide before embracing AI, report warns

Uganda faces a significant challenge in bridging its digital divide, particularly in internet penetration, before it can fully leverage the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), according to a new report. The “State of Internet Freedom in Africa 2025” study, which examined 14 African nations, placed Uganda among those with the lowest ICT Development ratings and internet penetration rates.

With internet penetration at a mere 28 percent, Uganda lags behind many of its African peers. This statistic, coupled with low mobile penetration, indicates a substantial portion of the population remains unconnected. This foundational gap poses a critical obstacle as the country looks towards adopting advanced technologies like AI.

While AI offers immense potential across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and governance, its benefits may not reach all Ugandans. The report warns that vulnerable groups, including rural populations, women, and linguistic minorities, are at risk of further marginalization and new forms of digital discrimination if the existing digital inequities are not addressed.

Uganda is classified as having an “emerging” AI sector, alongside countries like Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. However, these nascent sectors are constrained by limited funding, infrastructure, and skilled personnel. Without addressing the fundamental issues of internet access and digital literacy, Uganda risks falling behind in the global AI race.

Experts urge Ugandan digital regulatory bodies to prioritize closing the basic digital divides, ensuring widespread internet access and equipping citizens with essential digital skills. This groundwork is crucial to ensure that the rapid advancements in technology, particularly AI, benefit all segments of society and that no one is left behind in the accelerating digital future.

Read more at: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/close-the-gap-in-internet-penetration-ai-adoption-5572646