The Ugandan government has announced plans to establish a new Information and Communication Technology (ICT) innovation hub at Mountains of the Moon University in Fort Portal city. The initiative aims to decentralise technology entrepreneurship training and mentorship for the Tooro sub-region and beyond.
The outgoing Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Amina Zawedde, revealed the expansion on Tuesday, November 10, during the UJ-Connect Entrepreneurship Training and Mentorship Programme Demo Day at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa, Kampala. The new facility will join existing regional hubs at Soroti, Muni, Kabale, and Busitema universities.
Bridging the Innovation Gap
Dr. Zawedde emphasised that the move is designed to give innovators outside Kampala direct access to mentorship, funding, and product commercialisation support. "We are targeting innovators across the country to ensure that the digital transformation leaves no one behind," she said.
The government's strategy seeks to shift focus from purely technical features to market-driven solutions. Dr. Zawedde urged the youth to build products that respond to tangible domestic challenges rather than relying on imported solutions. This approach, she noted, will foster homegrown innovation that addresses local needs and creates sustainable businesses.
Expanding Regional Reach
The establishment of the hub at Mountains of the Moon University is part of a broader effort to extend ICT infrastructure and opportunities beyond the capital. The existing hubs have already begun to nurture tech talent in various regions, and the new addition is expected to further stimulate economic growth through technology.
Local leaders and students in Fort Portal have welcomed the announcement, anticipating that the hub will provide valuable resources and training for aspiring entrepreneurs. The initiative aligns with Uganda's national development goals, which prioritise digital transformation and job creation for young people.
As the government continues to roll out these regional hubs, the focus remains on creating an inclusive digital economy where every citizen can participate and benefit. The Mountains of the Moon University hub is set to become a cornerstone of tech innovation in western Uganda, empowering the next generation of problem-solvers and job creators.
