Uganda Finance Minister Urges Airtel to Increase Investment in Secure Digital Infrastructure

Uganda's Finance Minister, Henry Musasizi, has called on telecommunications company Airtel Uganda to increase its investments in secure and modern digital systems. This appeal supports the government's broader strategy to expedite the nation's digital transformation and bolster its digital economy.

During a meeting with Airtel Uganda's new CEO and Managing Director, Soumendra Sahu, Minister Musasizi highlighted that continuous investment in secure digital infrastructure is essential for enhancing service delivery, expanding connectivity, and improving Uganda's global competitiveness. He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting private sector growth, recognizing its pivotal role in job creation, service expansion, domestic revenue generation, and reducing reliance on external financing.

The minister also acknowledged Airtel Uganda's contributions, commending the company for its efforts in expanding telecommunications services, investing in fiber-optic infrastructure, creating employment opportunities, and contributing tax revenue that supports national development initiatives.

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The government remains committed to supporting private sector growth because it is central to creating jobs, expanding services, increasing domestic revenue and reducing dependence on external financing.

Soumendra Sahu expressed gratitude for the government's ongoing support and reaffirmed Airtel Uganda's dedication to broadening connectivity and investing in digital infrastructure. He stated the company's intention to continue its partnership with the government to foster digital inclusion and support national development. Sahu also mentioned Airtel's current initiatives, including providing free internet to approximately 200 schools and sponsoring 20 university students annually through its scholarship program, alongside offering graduate training opportunities.

The discussion also touched upon smartphone taxation and government support for Uganda's nascent local smartphone assembly industry. Moses Kaggwa, Director of Economic Affairs, advocated for measures to safeguard domestic smartphone manufacturers as the country aims to build its production capacity.

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The telecommunications company would continue partnering with the government to promote digital inclusion and support national development.