Today, we proudly hosted the inaugural #StateOfTheDigitalEconomy Symposium, a landmark event dedicated to exploring the transformative potential of digital technology in Uganda.
We were honored to have esteemed guests such as Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, and Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission, among our distinguished attendees. Their presence, along with our partners, underscores the significance of this initiative.
At Next Media, we have embraced artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize our operations. Currently, about 40% of our processes, including running shows and managing operations, are powered by AI. Mastery of AI has become a prerequisite for working with us, reflecting our commitment to staying at the forefront of the digital agenda.
However, the private sector’s rapid advancements in digital technology often outpace policy developments. During the event, I urged our Guest of Honour, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, to ensure that policy evolves in tandem with innovation. Accelerated policy advancements are essential for realizing meaningful results in the digital realm.
A key aspect of a thriving digital economy is trust in digital money. Last year, a telecom company reported receiving up to 16,000 calls per month about money loss due to digital fraud. In response, we at Next Media launched the Beera Steady campaign, which successfully reduced these complaints by 86% within eight months. The remaining 14% of calls were mostly requests to block fraudsters, highlighting the campaign’s success. With established trust in digital money, the digital economy can flourish.
Furthermore, I called on Nyombi Thembo to facilitate discussions to lift the Facebook ban. Young entrepreneurs have begun opening shops on Facebook, but these opportunities have been stifled by the ban. We cannot discuss a thriving digital economy while such blockades are in place.
At Next Media, we are committed to pushing the digital agenda forward, ensuring that Uganda’s digital economy reaches its full potential. The #StateOfTheDigitalEconomy Symposium marks the beginning of a new chapter in our journey, one where innovation, policy, and trust converge to create a vibrant digital future for Uganda.
