Government moves to localize digital services

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In an effort to achieve digital inclusion and increased access to social services, the Government is mooting ways to translate digital services into Ugandan local languages. 

The idea is to enable more Ugandans access digital services which will ensure increased reach of social and economic services.

Digitalizing government services (e-government) involves using technology to deliver services to citizens online, aiming for efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement.

In Uganda, the government entities that have digitized services include the finance ministry, Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), and the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA) — with initiatives such as e-procurement, online tax registration and payments, and digital postal services.

Speaking during a multi-stakeholder dialogue on centering safeguards in Uganda’s digital transformation in Kampala on Thursday (March 6), Michael Ocero, the assistant commissioner of e-services in the ICT ministry, said that the government is already engaging internet providers to address the matter.

(Photo by Nancy Nanyonga)

Participants attending the dialogue on Uganda’s digital transformation at Four Points Sheraton. (Photo by Nancy Nanyonga)

The dialogue was organized by the Initiative for Social and Economic Rights (ISER) to engage stakeholders on digital data safeguards.

'Watch your personal data'

Ocero said different ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) already have their digital services in local languages. 

The progress has been slow though, underscoring the need to first have a robust digital infrastructure in place.

"In our journey to have internet services translated into different local languages, we are still strengthening our digital infrastructure," said Ocero.

He spoke of the internet's role in modern service delivery.

"It enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and improves customer experiences."

But stakeholders were told to be wary of the realities, especially on data protection.

"This localization has opportunities and challenges as well. Threats on personal details might arise along the way because this exercise opens up for many internet users.  Keep an eye on your personal data," urged Ocero.

Last month, the Personal Data Protection Office launched a Data Protection and Privacy Compliance Toolkit to help organizations align with Uganda’s Data Protection and Privacy Act, Cap 97.

The toolkit, according to developers, is designed to assist businesses in safeguarding personal data while ensuring regulatory compliance.

Rosemary Kisembo, the CEO of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), welcomed the move. She said NIRA had already started advances on the same development.

Kisembo said the limitation of internet services in only English language hampers access to social services, something she said compromises their human rights.

"Most of the NIRA services are currently accessed digitally, and we know other entities are also making efforts.  This cuts cost of service accessibility," she said.

Saphina Nakulima, programmes director of the Initiative for Social and Economic Rights (ISER), said that much as Uganda's internet infrastructure is improving, the amount of local content and services in Ugandan languages online is still limited, with a focus on English for convenience and accessibility.

She called on the Government to strengthen data protection safeguards to ensure equal access of social services.