Organised by NextCom, the communications agency under Next Media, this year's conference will be held under the theme, "Beyond Connectivity: Turning Access into Opportunity."
Now in its third year, SODE has established itself as one of Uganda's leading forums on digital transformation, bringing together policymakers, regulators, investors, innovators, entrepreneurs and content creators to discuss how technology can accelerate national development.
This year's edition seeks to answer a central question: How can Uganda transform growing digital access into meaningful opportunities for its people?
As internet connectivity, smartphone ownership and digital services continue to expand, discussions are increasingly shifting towards how these gains can drive employment, entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable economic growth.
The conference will focus on four key pillars: Human Capital, Policy, Infrastructure, and Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity.
Participants will examine how Uganda can strengthen digital skills, build resilient digital infrastructure, develop enabling policies and prepare citizens and businesses to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.
In addition to keynote addresses and panel discussions, SODE 2026 will feature innovation exhibitions, fintech showcases, GovTech demonstrations, creator economy sessions and interactive masterclasses highlighting the role of technology in transforming industries.
A key attraction will be the Vibe Hackathon, where young innovators and experienced developers will collaborate to develop practical solutions to real-world challenges using emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Organisers say the hackathon is designed to showcase the ingenuity of Uganda's growing technology community while encouraging innovations that address everyday problems.
The conference will also provide a platform for dialogue between government, regulators, the private sector and innovators on policies and investments needed to strengthen Uganda's digital economy.
While Uganda has made notable progress in expanding mobile connectivity, digital payments and online services, previous SODE conferences have consistently highlighted the need to ensure these gains translate into stronger digital skills, improved cybersecurity, supportive regulation and wider participation in the digital economy.
SODE 2026 will be held on Friday, July 24, at the Next Conference Center, Next Media Park, and is expected to attract policymakers, entrepreneurs, developers, educators, students and technology enthusiasts from across the country.
As Uganda's digital economy continues to evolve, this year's conference aims to move the conversation beyond connectivity towards ensuring technology creates tangible opportunities for citizens, businesses and the broader economy.