At the second edition of the State of the Digital Economy conference hosted at Next Media Park, Kin Kariisa, Group CEO of Next Media, delivered a passionate address on Uganda’s digital future, celebrating progress while unveiling bold new plans to empower creators through the forthcoming Next Creator Hub.
Kariisa commended government leaders, including Uganda Communications Commission Executive Director Nyombi Tembo and National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) Executive Director Hatwib Mugasa, for laying the foundations that have positioned Uganda as a digitally connected nation.
He cited the availability of 4G and even 5G networks in rural Ntungamo as evidence that policy and infrastructure are working hand in hand to create opportunity.
“If the right policies were not in place, investors would not have invested in 5G here,” Kariisa said.
While praising connectivity gains, Kariisa stressed that the real challenge lies in making the digital economy work for everyone.
He outlined a vision of a cashless future where digital tools formalize the economy, simplify trade, and expand opportunities.
“The boda rider should afford a smartphone that connects him to passengers. The market vendor should be able to order stock digitally and pay through mobile money. That is when we know digital is working for all of us,” he explained.
He also highlighted Next Media’s collaborations with regulators and partners in combating digital fraud and disinformation.
Campaigns such as “Beera Steady, Be Better” have reduced mobile money fraud cases, while the “Dis-Mis” initiative is tackling fake news before it destabilizes communities or undermines financial systems.
Reaffirming Next Media’s digital-first strategy, Kariisa noted that mobile phones are now the primary screen for most Ugandans.
He urged regulators and telecoms to make internet bundles more affordable so that more citizens can access digital content and fully participate in the economy.
The biggest announcement of the day was Kariisa’s unveiling of the Next Creator Hub, scheduled to launch on October 10.
The hub will provide a dedicated space for musicians, filmmakers, influencers, and other digital creators to produce, distribute, and monetize their content.
“We want creators to benefit from the dividends of the digital economy. Let’s use 5G and 4G to create value, build careers, and strengthen our economy,” he said.
As the conference assessed Uganda’s digital economy, Kariisa underscored that infrastructure and policy are only the beginning.
True progress, he argued, will come when connectivity translates into inclusion, safety, and opportunity for all.
With the launch of the Next Creator Hub, Next Media is signaling a future where Uganda’s digital economy is not just about connectivity but about creativity, empowerment, and shared prosperity.