Uganda’s rapid digital growth, with over 34 million mobile subscriptions and 14.2 million internet users, has brought new opportunities alongside significant risks for businesses and citizens.
As more people rely on online platforms, understanding critical issues like digital rights, privacy, and cybersecurity has lagged behind, prompting strategic initiatives to bridge the gap.
A partnership between Evidence and Methods Lab (EML) and the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) aims to strengthen public awareness and safeguard digital participation.
Supported by Enabel and the European Union, CIPESA is implementing the Advancing Respect for Human Rights by Businesses in Uganda Programme, providing training for individuals, SMEs, and innovation hubs on responsible digital practices.
EML has complemented this by translating complex digital rights issues into accessible tools and messages for the general public.
The campaign began with a comprehensive research study assessing digital rights awareness among businesses, revealing gaps in cybersecurity readiness, data protection compliance, and public understanding.
Findings were shared with policymakers and highlighted at the State of the Digital Economy (SODE) Forum at Next Media Park, placing evidence at the center of Uganda’s digital policy discussions.
EML also produced infographics, information sheets, and posters to expand understanding among stakeholders and online audiences.
To make digital rights education more practical, EML developed an AI-powered chatbot offering real-time guidance on privacy, cybersecurity, and responsible online behaviour.
Accessible via QR code, the chatbot attracted over 200 early users, demonstrating the potential of personalised digital literacy tools. The team also produced a one-minute animated video on digital rights for online and offline audiences, enhancing the campaign’s reach.
Next Media Uganda played a key role in amplifying the initiative. Through NBS Television and its media ecosystem, the State of Digital Economy 2025 was broadcast nationwide, accompanied by discussions on digital rights and social media engagement that generated over 12,000 posts during SODE 2025.
EML further engaged young innovators at post-SODE events, including Dev Fest at the International University of East Africa, highlighting the importance of digital security.
The partnership showcases the power of combining research, innovation, and media. CIPESA provided policy expertise and a regional perspective, EML offered creative communication and technical translation, and Next Media ensured national visibility. Together, these efforts are helping Ugandans navigate the digital world more safely and confidently.
The campaign demonstrates that public awareness, practical tools, and media amplification can empower citizens to protect themselves online, creating a future where digital participation is informed, secure, and inclusive.