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Uganda
Uganda’s ICT sector celebrated a major
milestone today with the launch of the IT Consumer Protection Portal, by Hon.
Joyce Ssebugwawo, State Minister for ICT, at the Consumer Protection
Conference.
Developed by the National Information
Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U) with support from Enabel’s Skills and
Governance Project, funded by the European Union, this platform empowers
Ugandans to report issues with IT services and track complaints in real time.
The portal also provides consumers with information about their rights, helping
to build trust and accountability in the digital economy.
In her remarks, Hon. Ssebugwawo highlighted
that consumer trust is essential for increased digital adoption. “Digital
transformation is no longer a choice,” she stated. “Both government and private
sector service strength lies in meeting citizens' needs efficiently.” This
portal aims to make reporting poor service easier and quicker, ultimately
supporting a more trustworthy digital space for all Ugandans.
Michael Niyitegeka, the key note speaker at
the event, noted that Uganda’s digital economy heavily depends on consumer
trust in the products and services available. He warned about the risks of
counterfeit products, which affect the quality of life, businesses, and the
environment. He pointed out that "three-quarters of global businesses will
operate on shared platforms by 2030," making consumer protection and
accountability even more crucial. Niyitegeka stressed the importance of
empowering consumers to navigate these platforms safely and ensuring they know
how to verify the authenticity of products and services.
NITA-U’s Executive Director also mentioned
that the portal is part of a larger network of digital solutions contributing
to Uganda’s digital transformation. As Uganda continues to expand its digital
reach, initiatives like this portal play an essential role in safeguarding
citizens and ensuring a secure online environment for all.
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