Uganda’s Digital Powerhouse Dr. Aminah Zawedde Leads Charge for East Africa’s Tech Revolution at D4D Forum 2026

Arusha, Tanzania — In a significant boost to regional digital integration, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, is representing Uganda at the high-level Jumuiya Digital for Development (D4D) Forum 2026, currently underway in Arusha, Tanzania.

The forum, convened by the East African Community (EAC), has drawn policymakers, regulators, central bankers, tech entrepreneurs, and development partners to chart practical pathways for accelerating the region’s digital economyUganda’s Digital Powerhouse Dr. Aminah Zawedde Leads Charge for East Africa’s Tech Revolution at D4D Forum 2026. 

Key focus areas include e-commerce and digital trade, seamless cross-border payments, bankable digital projects and partnerships, as well as e-government services and regional digital solutions.Participants are exploring strategies to strengthen regional integration, reduce barriers to digital trade, and unlock inclusive growth opportunities across the EAC partner states.Driving Inclusive Digital TransformationDuring a high-profile panel discussion, Dr. Zawedde delivered a compelling message on the transformative power of digital technologies. She stressed the need to harness digital transformation as a catalyst for inclusive socio-economic development, spurring innovation, and fostering deeper collaboration among EAC nations.

“Digital transformation is not just about technology — it is about people,” Dr. Zawedde emphasized. “It must drive inclusive growth, empower citizens and businesses alike, and ensure no one is left behind in East Africa’s digital future.”She spotlighted Uganda’s notable advancements in rolling out digital government services, including efforts to expand broadband access, lower internet costs, build resilient digital infrastructure, and support innovation ecosystems that benefit both citizens and enterprises. 
These initiatives align with broader national goals of creating a robust, citizen-centric digital economy.Regional Momentum for a Single Digital MarketThe D4D Forum 2026 comes at a pivotal moment as the EAC intensifies efforts toward a Single Digital Market. 
Discussions are addressing practical challenges and opportunities in cross-border payments, digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity, and harmonized regulatory frameworks to make digital trade easier and more affordable across borders.
Stakeholders are also examining investment-ready digital projects and public-private partnerships that could accelerate infrastructure development and innovation in sectors ranging from finance and agriculture to health and education.
Dr. Zawedde’s participation underscores Uganda’s commitment to active regional leadership in digital matters. As one of the key voices from Uganda’s ICT sector, her contributions are expected to influence outcomes on policy alignment and collaborative projects that will shape East Africa’s digital landscape in the coming years.
The forum is set to produce actionable recommendations and reinforce the EAC’s vision of a connected, competitive, and inclusive digital economy that drives sustainable development for over 300 million East Africans.
As the event continues in Arusha, expectations are high for concrete outcomes that translate high-level ambitions into tangible benefits for businesses and citizens across the region. Uganda’s strong representation signals its ambition to be a major player in Africa’s ongoing digital revolution.