MTN Uganda expands digital access with ICT hub in refugee settlement

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | MTN Foundation Uganda has opened a 12-computer information and communications technology hub in northern Uganda, expanding access to internet services and digital skills for refugees and residents of surrounding communities.

The facility in Palabek Refugee Settlement in Lamwo District, established with Hopelink Action Foundation Uganda, will provide free access to computers, internet connectivity and digital learning resources. The settlement hosts nearly 72,000 refugees and asylum seekers, most of them from South Sudan.

The investment comes as digital access becomes increasingly important to education, employment and participation in Uganda’s growing digital economy, while infrastructure remains limited in many rural and refugee-hosting communities.

“Access to technology and connectivity is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity for learning, accessing information, finding opportunities and participating in the modern economy,” said Francis Gimara, a trustee of MTN Foundation.

The hub is part of MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2030 strategy, which includes expanding digital inclusion and access to connectivity and technology. It also supports Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan, which identifies digital transformation and human capital development as drivers of economic growth.

Users of the Palabek facility will be able to access online education, employment platforms, entrepreneurship resources and digital services. MTN Foundation is also encouraging beneficiaries to use programmes such as MTN ACE and MTN Skills Academy to develop technology-related skills.

The project brings to 94 the number of ICT centres supported by MTN Foundation across Uganda since 2007, extending the company’s digital-access programme beyond major urban areas to schools, community organisations and underserved populations.

Richard Ochaka Okot, executive director of Hopelink Action Foundation Uganda, said the organisation would work with the community to ensure the facility remains accessible and useful to residents.

“Digital access opens doors to knowledge, opportunity and innovation,” Okot said.

Wilson Mugabe, deputy commandant representing the Refugee Desk Officer and Commandant in the Office of the Prime Minister, said digital infrastructure can support refugee and host communities in accessing information, services and economic opportunities.

The initiative also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals on education, decent work, innovation and inequality, as Uganda seeks to expand participation in its digital economy.

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