KAMPALA, UGANDA — ATC Uganda, in partnership with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), has launched a Digital Community at Makindye Division Headquarters.
The initiative provides free internet access, computer skills training, and digital resources to underserved communities.
Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), praised the partnership, saying it aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Digital Transformation Roadmap.
“This initiative is a testament to what we can achieve when public and private entities unite for the greater good of our communities,” Thembo said. “The Digital Community Program aligns perfectly with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the Digital Transformation Roadmap, which emphasizes digitization as a cornerstone of development.”
Ms. Mneesha Nahata, Senior Vice President at American Tower, emphasized the program’s goal to positively impact the lives of at least 2 million people by 2030 worldwide.
“Our Digital Community program exemplifies the power of partnerships between public and private sectors to bridge the digital divide,” Nahata said. “It is an honor to launch this Digital Community for the people of Makindye, as part of our goal to positively impact the lives of at least 2 million people by 2030 worldwide.”
ATC Uganda’s CEO, Ms. Dorothy Ssemanda, highlighted the initiative’s role in uplifting Ugandan communities, providing free ICT training and resources.
“Our Digital Community centers are more than just computer labs; they are transformative spaces equipped with internet access, computers, and skilled instructors offering training in vital ICT skills like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint,” Ssemanda said. “These centers are free of charge to all community members—youth and adults alike—ensuring no one is left behind in today’s digital age.”
Ssemanda emphasized the significance of empowering youth, saying, “With half of Uganda’s population aged 15 and below, we recognize our responsibility to help skill the youth and provide opportunities for a brighter future. By equipping individuals with ICT certifications, we are giving them a critical start toward securing jobs and building sustainable careers.”
Ms. Suzette Victor, Director Sustainability at ATC Africa, highlighted the significance of the Digital Community Initiative as the cornerstone of the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts.
“The Digital Community Initiative is a flagship program that promotes digital literacy and inclusion, providing free training, internet access, and resources to underserved communities,” Victor said. “With 42 Digital Communities established in Uganda, we are proud of this expansion and its alignment with our mission to build a more connected Africa and Uganda.”
KCCA’s Head of ICT, Mrs. Monica Nyakaiski, represented KCCA Acting Director Frank Rusa, commending ATC Uganda for complementing the Smart City agenda.
“The digital community projects we are launching today are more than just technological advancements; they are catalysts for change,” Nyakaiski said. “By enhancing connectivity and safety, we are creating an environment where businesses can thrive, students can access educational resources, and residents can feel secure.”
Rusa added, “The digital community projects we are launching today are more than just technological advancements; they are catalysts for change. By bringing digital resources to areas like the ghettos, we are creating gateways to opportunity and empowering individuals to build better futures.”
The launch marks the 42nd Digital Community established in Uganda, promoting digital literacy and inclusion across the country.
