Uganda ICT IP Guidelines Signed off

In a significant step forward for Uganda’s ICT sector, the Uganda ICT Intellectual Property (IP) Guidelines were officially signed off by Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, and Mr. Inoue Yoichi, the Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This was during the 4th Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting on February 5th, 2025 at the National ICT Innovation Hub. These guidelines are an important milestone in Uganda’s journey towards realizing its development goals, as outlined in the Digital Transformation Roadmap, Vision 2040, and the National Development Plan III.

They were developed through collaboration between various stakeholders, including government ministries, universities, private companies, and development partners like JICA. As a result, the guidelines offer a clear and predictable way to handle IP in Uganda’s fast-growing ICT industry. Their main goal is to promote innovation, creativity, and investment, giving local innovators the tools, they need to protect their work and ensuring they receive the recognition and rewards they deserve.
Additionally, they will protect Ugandan innovators’ intellectual property, ensuring they receive proper recognition and rewards. They aim to drive economic growth, create jobs, and improve livelihoods by promoting commercialization and wider adoption of locally developed ICT solutions. This marks a great advancement in Uganda’s efforts to create a dynamic and competitive ICT ecosystem.

“I encourage all stakeholders, including innovators, entrepreneurs, government officials, and researchers, to familiarize themselves with these guidelines and seize the opportunities they offer.” Dr. Aminah Zawedde.
As Uganda moves towards its Vision 2040, these guidelines will play a key role in the country’s journey towards digital transformation. With innovation protected and celebrated, Uganda’s ICT sector is well-positioned to grow and make a positive impact on the nation’s development.

The official launch of the Uganda ICT IP Guidelines on February 14th, 2025, will be a pivotal moment for Uganda’s innovation ecosystem. With these guidelines in place, Uganda is ready to unlock the full potential of its ICT sector and continue driving progress for years to come.