Eight Tech Consults Ltd, in partnership with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and
the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda (NUDIPU) ,proudly hosted a dissemination workshop under the ICT for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Program, a national initiative aimed at fostering digital inclusion and empowerment for persons with disabilities in Uganda.
Speaking at the opening of the workshop, the Chief Executive Officer of Eight Tech Consults Ltd
professor Jude T. Lubega welcomed participants with a powerful message: “Digital inclusion is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right.” The event brought together key stakeholders, government officials, development partners, civil society, and direct beneficiaries to reflect on the strides made since the program’s inception in 2021/2022.
The UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo underlined the significance of the ICT4 Persons with Special Needs (PWSNs) Endline Project. He noted his early involvement with the initiative, which aims to break down barriers to information and communication technology for individuals with disabilities.
Bridging the Digital Divide
Ms Esther Kyozira, the CEO of NUDIPU, highlighted the tangible benefits of the UCC’s support, and said they allowed them to set up high-tech center's in the Kiboga and Bugweri districts.
These centers are equipped with assistive technologies to train people with disabilities in digital skills and provide safe spaces for learning and innovation. She called for greater awareness and strengthening of the National Observatory as Uganda’s main source of data on people with disabilities.
With approximately 12.4% of Uganda’s population, nearly 4.5 million individuals, living with some form of disability, the ICT for PWDs program was launched to address the stark digital divide. Many persons with disabilities face limited access to technology, inadequate ICT training opportunities, and challenges in accessing digital services. This initiative was created to turn those barriers into bridges.
Achievements of the Program
- Extensive Research: Conducted across 73 districts including Kibaale , Mukono, Pallisa , Zombo , Totoro, Lira Moyo, Isingiro , Sironko , Sheema , Rubanda, Omoro, Terego, Nwoya, Rukiga , Luwero, Jinja, Wakiso, Mbale, Busia, Mityana, Bushenyi, Iganga, among others in five regions, this foundational research provided insights into the content and digital needs of diverse disability categories in Uganda
- Digital Infrastructure Development: Creation of the National Digital Observatory, a dynamic mobile application, and a web-based digital skilling system that profiles users and provides personalized ICT training.
- Capacity Building: Over 10,000 persons with disabilities have received direct digital skills training, equipping them to participate more fully in today’s digital economy.
- Fostering Innovation: Through specially designed Innovation Hackathons, participants were encouraged to explore creative, tech-driven solutions to everyday challenges.
- Community Engagement: The development of 35 district union websites include Hoima district union of Persons with Disabilities ( HUDIP) , Jinja District Union of Persons with Disabilities ( JIDU) , Gulu Disabled Persons Union among others has strengthened grassroots mobilization and local digital resource access.
A Celebration of Impact and Partnership
The workshop served as both a celebration of the program’s success and a platform for dialogue
on future priorities. It showcased stories of resilience, innovation, and transformation from PWDs who have embraced technology as a tool for empowerment.
The CEO extended deep appreciation to the Government of Uganda, UCC, NUDIPU, development
partners, academia, community leaders, and the dedicated trainers and beneficiaries. “Your collaboration has been indispensable to our success,” he noted.
Looking Ahead: Inclusive Digital Transformation
As the program enters its next phase, Eight Tech Consults reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusive digital transformation across Uganda. The workshop concluded with a call to action: to continue shaping a future where no one is left behind in the digital revolution.
Stay connected with Eight Tech Consults Ltd as we continue to drive impact through innovative ICT solutions that empower communities and advance equity.