Mbale ICT Hub to boost employable skills acquisition
Officials say the Mbale ICT Hub is expected to serve as a catalyst for innovation and inclusive growth, equipping a new generation of tech leaders with the skills, mentorship, and resources needed to drive Uganda’s socio-economic development and strengthen its presence in the global digital economy.
Uganda and the United Kingdom have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a shillings three billion ICT Hub in Mbale district. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)
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Uganda and the United Kingdom have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a shillings three billion ICT (information and communications technology) Hub in Mbale, a project led by the UK-based civil society organisation Spotlight on Africa.
The initiative aims to accelerate digital transformation, expand access to technology, and create opportunities for young women to pursue careers in ICT and entrepreneurship.
Officials say the Mbale ICT Hub is expected to serve as a catalyst for innovation and inclusive growth, equipping a new generation of tech leaders with the skills, mentorship, and resources needed to drive Uganda’s socio-economic development and strengthen its presence in the global digital economy.
Hefin Rees, the chairperson of Spotlight on Africa, on February 19, 2026, said the move is timely as the world adapts to rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI). Rees noted that the group already operates two ICT centres in Mbale, has graduated 800 young women, 60% of whom are now employed and remains committed to serving the most vulnerable.
Hefin Rees, the chairperson of Spotlight on Africa, said the move is timely as the world adapts to rapid advances in artificial intelligence (AI). (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)
“This is not charity for the middle class,” he said.
“We are here for the poorest communities. Our work focuses on education through training and knowledge empowerment, as well as outreach programmes in local areas.”
He commended the Government of Uganda for its support and partnership in driving inclusive digital development.
British High Commissioner to Uganda Lisa Chesney said the initiative “demonstrates the power of partnerships in driving innovation and economic growth.
Uganda’s investment policies provide a favourable environment for initiatives like this, and the UK is proud to support efforts that empower young women and underserved communities.”
British High Commissioner to Uganda Lisa Chesney said the initiative “demonstrates the power of partnerships in driving innovation and economic growth. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)
She urged Spotlight on Africa to follow up on its graduates to ensure they are well supported as they advance in their ICT careers.
Uganda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Nimisha Jayant Madhvani, also praised Spotlight on Africa for choosing to work with Uganda’s poorest communities and for its focus on supporting women and young people.
“We are delighted that this initiative will touch the lives of those who need it most,” Madhvani said, noting that Uganda “offers ripe investment opportunities underpinned by a stable and conducive business environment, and our government welcomes partners who align with our vision for inclusive growth.”
She urged continued collaboration to ensure that initiatives like the Mbale ICT Hub translate into real economic and social benefits for Ugandans at home and abroad.
Dr Aminah Zawedde, the permanent secretary in the ICT and National Guidance ministry, welcomed the Mbale ICT Hub initiative, noting that skilling young women aligns directly with existing government programmes supporting Uganda’s digital transformation goals.
Dr Aminah Zawedde, the permanent secretary in the ICT and National Guidance ministry, welcomed the Mbale ICT Hub initiative. (Photo by Mpalanyi Ssentongo)
“Empowering our youth and women with digital skills is at the heart of our national agenda,” Zawedde said, adding that such initiatives complement government efforts to make technology more inclusive and accessible to all Ugandans.
She pointed out that the Government’s focus extends beyond training to include expanding digital infrastructure, rolling out digital services, strengthening data protection and cybersecurity, promoting innovation, and fostering entrepreneurship nationwide.
“Our digital transformation roadmap prioritises infrastructure development, services, skills and a secure digital ecosystem so Ugandans can thrive in an increasingly connected world,” Zawedde said, underlining the holistic nature of Uganda’s ICT strategy.
Zawedde also highlighted the Government’s work in establishing the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa and a network of regional hubs at institutions of higher learning, aimed at nurturing local talent and innovation across the country.
She noted that the new Mbale hub will complement the existing regional hub in Soroti City, expanding access to digital skills and community support in Eastern Uganda.
“These hubs are key to creating enabling spaces where innovators, especially from underserved areas, can learn, grow and contribute to the digital economy,” she said.