Smart borders or soft targets? Uganda pushes region‑wide tech for security & trade”
KAMPALA,UGANDA
On the outskirts of Kampala this week, government officials launched a bold push for smart border systems across the East African Community (EAC) region, arguing that the digitalisation of frontier posts is no longer optional.
Addressing the East Africa Border Security Week 2025 forum, David Muhoozi (Minister of State for Internal Affairs) noted that “our borders remain the first line of defence against emerging threats from trans‑national organised crime, trafficking, terrorism, and bio‑security risks such as pandemics.” Uganda, which currently hosts some 1.8 million refugees and sees heavy cross‑border trade and movement, faces acute pressure. The call is for secure yet efficient flow of goods and people.
But Kampala’s ambition comes mixed with challenges: border posts often lack reliable electricity, digital infrastructure and trained staff. Integrating “smart border” techno‑solutions (IoT sensors, biometric scanning, integrated databases) raises questions about cost, data privacy, and capacity for maintenance.
Local traders at major border crossings (Uganda‑Kenya, Uganda‑DRC, Uganda‑South Sudan) report customs delays, multiple checks, and informal levies — smart systems could streamline things… or lock out smaller operators who cannot adapt. Analysts warn of a two‑speed system: large firms benefiting, smaller cross‑border traders squeezed.
Why it matters
Trade is a major growth lever for Uganda and East Africa: efficient borders reduce cost of goods, increase competitiveness.
Security and trade are intertwined: failure to secure borders undermines investor confidence, raises insurance/transport costs.
Tech‑driven borders reflect Uganda’s leap into digital solutions, and how Kampala positions itself in regional value chains. But without inclusive planning, there’s risk of widening inequality.
For Kampala’s urban economy — transport/logistics firms, cross‑border wholesalers, import‑export operators — border efficiency or disruption directly affects margins, timelines and business viability.
What to watch
Which border posts Uganda and EAC roll out first in the smart‑system push; whether pilot projects deliver tangible improvements.
Whether small‑scale cross‑border traders are included or excluded in new systems — will there be support/training?
Data governance and privacy frameworks: as biometric/sensor systems expand, how will Uganda legislate and protect individual rights?
The effect on import/export times and costs: will trucking costs drop, customs delays shorten, and will this translate into lower consumer prices or higher trade volumes?
