Uganda has been confirmed as the host of the Digital Government Africa 2026 Summit, a major continental gathering expected to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies in public service delivery across Africa.
The announcement was made in Kampala by the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, who said the summit reflects Uganda’s growing role in shaping Africa’s digital transformation agenda.
The high-level conference is scheduled for October 6–8, 2026, and will bring together government officials, technology experts, private sector leaders, and development partners from more than 30 African countries.
Discussions will focus on how digital systems can improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility in government services.
Dr Baryomunsi noted that digital transformation is now central to governance rather than a future aspiration, stressing its importance in improving accountability and service delivery across the continent.
He added that Uganda’s hosting of the summit aligns with national priorities that position ICT as a key pillar for economic growth, job creation, and competitiveness.
Key thematic areas for the summit will include digital identity systems, e-government platforms, cybersecurity, digital payments, data governance, and the responsible deployment of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Executive Director of the National Information Technology Authority–Uganda, Hatwib Mugasa, said Uganda is well prepared to host the continental event.
He cited ongoing investments in critical ICT infrastructure, including the expansion of the national fibre optic network, the national data centre, and digital service platforms such as UGHub and UGPass.
According to Mugasa, these developments have strengthened Uganda’s capacity to deliver secure, integrated, and scalable digital government services, making the country a strong candidate to host a pan-African dialogue on innovation in public service delivery.
The summit is being organized in partnership with Africa Brains, whose Chief Executive Officer John Glasse said the initiative is designed to stimulate investment, innovation, and collaboration within Africa’s rapidly growing digital economy.
Organizers expect the event to attract widespread participation from across the continent, offering a platform for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and investment opportunities in digital governance solutions.
Government officials further emphasized that hosting the summit will enhance Uganda’s profile as a regional hub for digital innovation, while also creating opportunities for local innovators, businesses, and institutions to connect with global technology leaders.
The timing of the summit, just days before Uganda’s Independence Day celebrations, is expected to give international delegates an added opportunity to experience the country’s national festivities and cultural heritage.
