The Uganda Digital Acceleration Project – Government Network (UDAP-GovNet), a $200 million World Bank-funded initiative under NITA-U, is embroiled in conflicts over contract allocations. The project aims to expand digital infrastructure across Uganda but has been delayed due to internal fights over who should control the contracts.
Key figures involved include Alexander Kibandama, NITA-U Board Chairperson and brother of Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who allegedly prefers Huawei for the $26M National Backbone Infrastructure expansion and $10M Data Centre expansion. Some NITA-U officials and World Bank representatives oppose this, favoring Western firms. Rhoda Kimera, NITA-U’s Director of Finance and Administration, allegedly collaborates with businessman George Nkya to favor a Tanzanian company for the $10.8M internet bandwidth deal and Technology Associates for a $7M expansion project.
According to the information gathered, big bosses at the ICT Ministry, are accused of trying to take control of the project through the NITA-U merger.
NITA-U officials resist this, fearing project suspension by the World Bank.
Though looking at last year's performance, it clearly shows that NITA-U has poorly performed.
A project expected to be completed by the year 2026 is just currently at 2%.
This would give u a signal that the ICT Ministry's option looks genuine.
However, the World Bank, through Country Manager R. Mukami Kariuki, has clarified it has no objection to the merger if handled properly.
Additionally, President Museveni had directed Huawei to handle NBI Phase 5 under a Chinese EXIM Bank loan, but NITA-U and ICT Ministry officials have allegedly stalled the contract, reportedly demanding a 10% cut. Some of these officials are rumored to have been sponsored by Huawei for foreign trips to gain their support.
This power struggle and corruption allegations have delayed crucial ICT development projects in Uganda.
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