Digital Inclusion for the Visually Impaired in Uganda

The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, through the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT), has concluded an eight-day specialized training program titled “Introduction to Computer Basics for the Visually Impaired” (ICBVI). Conducted in partnership with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the initiative aimed to equip 30 participants, including visually impaired, partially sighted, and sighted individuals, with practical digital skills to navigate today’s technology-driven world.

Facilitated by Prof. Cristian Bernareggi from the University of Turin, Ms. Roobi Roobi, and Sada Kaane from Senegal, the training offered a hands-on, inclusive learning environment. Participants were introduced to screen reader technology, keyboard shortcuts for navigation, document creation in Microsoft Word, and email management.

“This training is aligned with Uganda’s broader vision to build an inclusive digital economy by promoting universal access to ICTs, enhancing digital literacy, and bridging the digital divide, especially among marginalized groups such as persons with disabilities,” said Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance.

Dr. Zawedde further emphasized the program’s alignment with the Digital Transformation Roadmap, which outlines targets including 95% internet coverage, 80% digital literacy among citizens, one device per household, and full digitization of government services. “We believe that no one should be left behind as we accelerate toward a future defined by innovation, access, and opportunity for all citizens,” she added.

According to Prof. Bernareggi, barriers such as limited access to assistive technology and a lack of inclusive ICT educators continue to hinder digital equity. “There’s a scarcity of educators trained in both ICT and inclusive teaching methods, along with limited access to screen readers and braille displays, especially in rural areas,” he observed.

The importance of such initiatives is underscored by the 2023 Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) survey, which revealed that about 2.8 million Ugandans—approximately 6% of the population—are visually impaired. Each year, around 30,000 new cases are recorded, largely due to cataracts and refractive errors.

Dr. Zawedde praised the ICBVI initiative for empowering individuals and contributing to national development. “By equipping the visually impaired with transferable ICT skills, this program enhances livelihoods, supports lifelong learning, and promotes social and economic inclusion,” she stated.

UICT is one of 14 Digital Training Centres under ITU delivering the ICBVI train-the-trainer component. The program aims to certify 20 trainers in inclusive teaching strategies and digital competencies, creating a sustainable model for long-term impact.

Francis Bwire, Head of the Business Development Center at UICT, confirmed plans to expand the course nationwide. “We are working to roll out the ICBVI course across Uganda to ensure more people benefit from this life-changing opportunity,” he said.

In addition to this initiative, Dr. Zawedde highlighted the government’s broader inclusion efforts under the Parish Development Model (PDM), which allocates 10% of funds specifically to Persons with Disabilities. “This policy ensures that economic empowerment starts at the parish level, allowing persons with disabilities to access microfinance, participate in development projects, and fully engage in national progress,” she noted.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Zawedde congratulated the trainees and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to inclusive digital transformation. “You are now ambassadors of digital inclusion—equipped to teach others, shape your communities, and contribute to Uganda’s knowledge-based economy. I commend UICT and its partners for their foresight and leadership. Let us continue working together—government, private sector, academia, and civil society—to build a Uganda where technology serves everyone, inclusion is standard, and opportunity is universal.”