KAMPALA — The government is preparing a national strategy to guide the adoption and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies as Uganda seeks to keep pace with rapid digital transformation.
The Minister for Information and National Guidance, Justine Kasule Lumumba, told Parliament’s Committee on ICT and National Guidance on Tuesday that the Ministry had completed a draft National AI and Emerging Technologies Strategy.
The strategy is intended to provide a framework for the use of AI across key sectors of the economy while addressing emerging risks associated with the technology.
Hon. Lumumba said the Ministry had conducted studies to assess Uganda’s level of AI adoption, technical capacity, readiness and priority areas where the technology could be applied.
The draft is currently awaiting consideration by the Ministry’s top management before it is submitted to Cabinet for approval.
“We have undertaken studies to assess the state of AI adoption, capability, readiness and priority use areas in Uganda. Arising from that, a draft National AI and Emerging Technologies Strategy has been developed,” Hon. Lumumba told the committee.
She said the proposed strategy would guide the ethical application of AI in sectors such as agriculture, health, education, security and public service delivery.
The government also intends to use the strategy to promote local innovation and develop skills needed to enable Ugandans to participate in the emerging digital economy.
Push for new cyber laws
The Minister also urged Parliament to fast-track the re-enactment of the Computer Misuse Act, arguing that Uganda’s digital environment is evolving faster than the existing legal framework.
Her call follows the Constitutional Court’s decision to nullify several provisions of the law.
Hon. Lumumba said stronger legislation was necessary to address challenges including misinformation, online harassment, digital fraud and other forms of cybercrime.
“We need a strong legal and regulatory framework to deal with misinformation, online harassment, fraud, and other emerging cyber challenges,” she said.
The Minister’s appearance before the committee came as lawmakers examined the country’s preparedness to respond to developments in artificial intelligence and the wider digital economy.
MPs raise job concerns
Committee members welcomed the proposed strategy but urged the Ministry to address potential risks associated with increased automation.
Among the issues raised were data protection, the need to equip young people with relevant digital skills and possible job losses as businesses and public institutions increasingly adopt automated systems.
Committee chairperson Andrew Ojok Oulanyah said Parliament would support efforts to strengthen Uganda’s digital transformation agenda.
“AI is the future, and we cannot be left behind as a country,” Mr Oulanyah said.
He added that the committee would scrutinise the proposed strategy once it is formally presented and work with the government on strengthening the legal framework governing the digital space.
The Ministry is expected to finalise the draft strategy before it is submitted to Cabinet for consideration.