The National Informatione Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) has announced that the government's ICT procurement approval process, commonly known as the N7 request, is now fully digital in a move aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery.
The N7 approval process is a mandatory requirement for all Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs) and Local Governments before they can purchase ICT equipment, software or services. The process helps ensure that government technology procurements comply with national ICT standards, avoid duplication of systems and promote cost-effective use of public resources.
Previously, government institutions were required to download and fill out the N7 approval form, obtain approval from their Accounting Officer and submit it to NITA-U for review. The authority would then assess whether the proposed procurement met national ICT standards and whether existing government digital infrastructure could meet the agency's needs before granting approval.
In a customer notice issued on July 14, NITA-U said the process has now shifted entirely online beginning with the 2026/27 financial year.
"We are pleased to inform you that the N7 Request Process is now fully digital," the authority said.
"Effective this Financial Year (FY 26/27), all N7 requests will be submitted online through the NITA-U website by accessing the Service Portfolio and completing the digital N7 request form."
NITA-U said the transition is intended to simplify the approval process while improving the quality of service offered to government institutions.
"This transition is intended to improve efficiency, enhance service delivery, and provide better visibility into the status of submitted requests," the notice added.
Under the N7 approval process, government entities seeking to buy ICT hardware such as computers, servers and networking equipment, software, internet services or other digital solutions must first seek clearance from NITA-U before procurement can proceed.
Applicants are required to provide technical specifications of the items they intend to procure, the estimated cost, justification for the purchase and obtain approval from their Accounting Officer before the request is reviewed by NITA-U.
The authority uses the process to ensure ICT investments across government align with the country's digital transformation agenda, prevent duplication of technology projects and encourage institutions to use existing shared government digital infrastructure where appropriate.
NITA-U also said users who experience challenges while submitting requests can seek assistance through its Service Desk via email, telephone, WhatsApp or the government support portal.
The digitisation of the approval process forms part of the government's wider efforts to improve public service delivery by moving more services online and reducing paperwork across public institutions.
