Day Two at NCC 2025: Uganda’s Digital Future Takes Shape at Nakawa Innovation Hub
The Urban Gazette Staff Writer
The second and final day of the 9th National Conference on Communications (NCC 2025) opened today at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa with fresh debates, tech showcases, and closing reflections on Uganda’s digital future.
Organized by ISBAT University in partnership with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), the two-day gathering has drawn hundreds of policymakers, innovators, researchers, students, and industry players under the theme: “Harnessing Digital Innovation to Power Sustainable Local Solutions for Uganda’s Development Goals.”
Morning energy
Delegates kicked off with a keynote session on communications infrastructure and local resilience, highlighting how rural broadband, inclusive policy, and sustainable financing will be critical in bridging Uganda’s digital divide.
Breakout sessions followed on IoT and Smart Agriculture, Digital Health, Civic Tech & Governance, and Green ICT, giving innovators the stage to present prototypes ranging from solar-powered connectivity kits to AI-driven translation tools for local languages.
Midday debates
Conversations grew sharper around data sovereignty and privacy regulation, with experts split on how Uganda can protect citizens’ data while supporting startups that need cross-border access.
A parallel panel on Youth, Gender & ICT Inclusion spotlighted success stories of women-led digital projects and urged stakeholders to expand programs for rural youth and persons with disabilities.
Innovation showcase
The exhibition hall was buzzing with student innovators demonstrating practical solutions: a smart irrigation system, an affordable telemedicine app, and an education chatbot designed for local schools. Judges began shortlisting winners for Best Student Innovation, Best Research Paper, and Best Regional Project.
Closing ceremony ahead
This afternoon will feature “fast-forward” paper presentations and award announcements before the official closing ceremony. UCC officials and government representatives are expected to outline next steps for Uganda’s digital transformation and reveal the host and theme for NCC 2026.
Key takeaways so far
Localizing high-tech tools like AI and IoT for Uganda’s real challenges in agriculture, health, and governance.
The importance of public–private partnerships to extend digital infrastructure.
The ongoing tension between innovation and regulation in data and communications policy.
The central role of youth and students in driving Uganda’s innovation ecosystem.
The Urban Gazette will continue to provide updates as the conference wraps up.
