The Uganda Communications Commission is undertaking a comprehensive study examining how Ugandans access and use information and communication technologies as the country’s digital economy continues to expand.
The study covers individuals, households, businesses and institutions and examines access to telecommunications, internet, broadcasting, postal services and digital financial services.
UCC commissioned AOT Consulting Ltd to undertake the research, which is intended to provide evidence that can guide regulation, policy and investment across Uganda’s communications sector.
Among the major areas being examined are affordability, quality of service, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, online risks and other barriers preventing Ugandans from adopting and effectively using ICT services.
Preliminary findings were presented during a validation workshop at UCC headquarters in Bugolobi, bringing stakeholders together to interrogate the research before completion.
The study comes at a time when digital technologies have become increasingly integrated into everyday life. Mobile communications, internet access, digital financial services and online platforms are changing how Ugandans communicate, work, learn and access services.
However, access alone does not necessarily translate into meaningful digital participation.
The research is therefore intended to give UCC a clearer understanding of who is connected, how people are using communications services and what continues to prevent sections of the population from participating fully in Uganda’s digital economy.
Early findings point to increasing use of mobile internet, digital financial services and digital technologies among businesses and institutions.
At the same time, barriers remain, including the cost of internet services and devices, inadequate digital skills, unreliable electricity, gaps in network coverage and concerns about online safety.
The study complements UCC’s broader evidence gathering work, including the National ICT in Education Survey, which assessed ICT integration across Uganda’s 52,630 primary and secondary schools.
By examining the realities of access and usage across different groups, the Commission intends to use the findings to develop more targeted regulatory interventions and guide investment towards communities and sectors where digital exclusion remains most pronounced.
Stakeholder participation in the validation process is also intended to ensure that the final research reflects experiences from across Uganda’s communications ecosystem.
The Commission says evidence based regulation is increasingly important as technologies and consumer behaviour evolve. Reliable data allows regulators and policymakers to identify gaps, measure progress and design interventions that respond to actual patterns of ICT access and use.
Ultimately, the study is expected to contribute to UCC’s wider objective of creating an inclusive communications environment in which Ugandans can access affordable, reliable and safe digital services and participate meaningfully in the country’s digital transformation.
