Uganda has intensified its role in shaping the future of global telecommunications governance as delegates from the Uganda Communications Commission participate in the 2026 session of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council currently underway in Geneva.
The high-level meeting, running from April 28 to May 8, brings together representatives from the ITU’s 48-member governing Council to deliberate on the Union’s strategic, financial, and operational priorities ahead of the next global telecommunications cycle.
Uganda, which currently represents Africa Region D on the Council for the 2022–2026 term, is also seeking re-election for the 2026–2030 term in a competitive field that includes 13 African seats.
Speaking during deliberations on the ITU Strategic Plan 2028–2031, UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo emphasized the importance of strengthening international telecommunications interoperability and innovation to support a resilient global digital economy.
He noted that harmonized global standards remain critical in ensuring seamless communication across systems, platforms, and borders, especially as countries accelerate digital transformation initiatives.
“Alignment of international telecommunications standards is essential in building an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem,” he observed during the high-level discussions.
Uganda’s delegation is led by Dr. Charity B. Mulenga, Chairperson of the UCC Board, alongside Nyombi Thembo and Fred Otunnu, among other officials.
One of the key agenda items at this year’s Council session is the development of the ITU Strategic Plan 2028–2031, a framework expected to guide global ICT priorities, resource allocation, and long-term sustainability efforts within the Union.
During discussions on the Union’s financial direction, Nyombi advocated for a more outcome-based budgeting framework that directly links financial allocations to measurable strategic outcomes.
He argued that such an approach would strengthen accountability, efficiency, and impact across ITU programmes and initiatives.
Uganda has also used the Geneva gathering to bolster diplomatic engagements in support of its Council re-election bid. The delegation has held bilateral meetings with countries including Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Türkiye, Pakistan, India, and Japan.
The engagements have focused on strengthening cooperation in digital development, ICT policy alignment, and reciprocal support within the ITU ecosystem.
Ahead of the Council opening, Uganda’s delegation also participated in a coordination meeting hosted at the Uganda Permanent Mission in Geneva under the leadership of Ambassador Marcel Tibaleka. The session was attended by Deputy Permanent Representative Ambassador Arthur Kafeero and Africa Group Coordinator Zoe Kirunda.
The meeting focused on harmonizing Uganda’s engagement strategy, aligning diplomatic priorities, and consolidating Africa’s coordination mechanisms during the Council proceedings.
As global demand for digital connectivity, cybersecurity, AI governance, and inclusive communication infrastructure continues to rise, Uganda’s active participation at the ITU Council signals the country’s growing ambition to influence international ICT policy and strengthen its position within the global digital economy.
