Uganda demonstrated its growing leadership in digital transformation by hosting the inaugural Middle East and Africa Digital Transformation Summit 2025 at the Kampala Serena Hotel from June 25 to 27, 2025. Held under the theme, “Driving Digital Transformation for a Connected and Inclusive MEA Region,” the summit convened more than 500 leaders, innovators, and government officials from across Africa and the Middle East to chart a roadmap for regional digital transformation.
The summit was co-organised by HiPipo, the COMESA Business Council, and Uganda’s Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, with support from regional and global partners. This highlighted strong public-private collaboration, with stakeholders working together to ensure that digital transformation delivers tangible benefits for citizens, while also emphasising the importance of engaging investors and partners to create opportunities for current and future generations.
Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja officially opened the Middle East and Africa Digital Transformation Summit 2025, delivering a keynote address on behalf of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. She highlighted ICT as a cornerstone of Uganda’s inclusive and sustainable development agenda and called on delegates to invest in scalable technologies, including blockchain, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, fintech, affordable connectivity, and smart agriculture. Speakers throughout the summit emphasised the importance of building systems and skills that empower all citizens, especially youth, women, and underserved communities.
Several landmark initiatives were showcased, including the Uganda–California Technology Forum, the Africa Youth Innovation Challenge & Awards, and live AI healthcare demonstrations. Delegates also engaged in high-level discussions on Islamic finance, smart cities, financial inclusion, green technology, and digital skills development, highlighting practical solutions to accelerate digital transformation across the region.
“Uganda’s Vision 2040, NDP IV, and the Digital Transformation Roadmap prioritize expanding broadband, advancing e-government, developing digital skills, and nurturing innovation ecosystems. By hosting this summit and bringing together leaders from across Africa and the Middle East, Uganda reinforces its ambition to become a regional hub for technology, skills, and investment, while fast-tracking digital transformation and delivering inclusive socio-economic opportunities,” said Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, as he addressed delegates at the summit.
Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, Uganda’s Minister of State for ICT & National Guidance, also stressed the unique opportunity digital change offers to uplift youth, women, and underserved communities. She emphasized the importance of maximizing digital benefits through innovation, always keeping in mind the need to deliver lasting value to people.
Over three days, the summit provided plenary sessions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities, serving not only as a platform to showcase progress but also as a milestone in translating Uganda’s digital aspirations into action. The event laid the foundation for a connected, prosperous, and inclusive future for Africa and the Middle East.
The author is a Senior Communications Officer at the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance.
