ICT Ministry to strengthen ICT ecosystem in Uganda

The agreement which has been termed by both parties as "Road of Discussions" (ROD) will run a digital skilling program to help Uganda improve her global competitiveness, create an ICT entrepreneurship program, create a framework on creating an enabling environment to support ICT acceleration and match make Ugandan companies and global global ICT firms to create opportunities for Ugandan companies.

"We are determined to create an environment that nourishes an ICT-centric innovation and generates new job opportunities for our young people. The part with JICA is one we are excited about," Aminah Zawedde, the permanent secretary, Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, said after the signing of the agreement and Ministry's offices in Kampala.

"We have seen the superior support JICA extends when they commit. The testimony can be seen in the elegance of the source of the Nile Bridge in Jinja or the almost incomplete flyover at clocktower among others. The depth of technical knowledge and expertise is what we have got this morning," she added.

Mr. Uchiyama Tukayuki, chief representative, JICA, said, "this partnership is the best way to promote Ugandan talent and also establish a platform to ease the discovery of young talent by both local and foreign companies."

It has been reported that about 77% of Ugandans are below the age of 30 and the population is to double between 2020 and 2060. The challenge of youth unemployment - which already exists - will only continue increasing if nothing is done to reduce it.