Uganda’s ability to benefit from Artificial Intelligence (AI) could be limited by high internet costs, poor connectivity and inadequate digital skills, experts have warned.
Dr Teddy Nalubega, Head of AI Division at Knowledge Consulting, says while AI is transforming how people access information, learn and receive services, many Ugandans risk being left behind because they cannot afford or access reliable internet.
The remarks were made during Uganda Internet Governance Week, organised by the Internet Society Uganda Chapter.
Nalubega said AI is changing the way people interact with technology by moving beyond traditional internet searches to providing personalised responses, recommendations and learning support.
“Most of the AIs that we have now are online. If you can’t access the internet, then you can’t access AI,” Nalubega said.
She explained that unlike earlier technologies designed to perform specific tasks, modern AI tools can handle multiple functions, helping users solve problems, understand complex subjects and improve productivity.
Nalubega said AI has the potential to transform lives by making knowledge and services more accessible, but communities with limited internet connectivity, especially in rural areas, may miss out on these opportunities.
She called for increased investment in affordable and faster internet infrastructure, data systems and AI training to prepare Uganda for the growing technology shift.
Nalubega also urged government to support local talent, saying Uganda has skilled young people capable of developing and using AI solutions but requires more investment in training and innovation.
“Government should put more resources into training and skilling people on the possibilities and different avenues where they can use AI,” she said.
Her remarks come as the Internet Society Uganda Chapter calls for measures to reduce the cost of internet access and expand digital inclusion.
The chapter’s convener, Lillian Nalwoga, said expensive internet remains one of the biggest barriers preventing many Ugandans from participating in the digital economy.
“We still have an access challenge related to the cost of the internet. Internet is still expensive for the average Ugandan, and we need affordable internet not just for the elite, but for the everyday Ugandan,” Nalwoga said.
She called on the government to reduce internet-related taxes, including taxes on smartphones and excise duties imposed on telecommunications companies, saying the costs are eventually passed on to consumers.
Nalwoga said reducing the cost of devices and connectivity would allow more Ugandans to access online services, including emerging technologies such as AI.
She noted that digital exclusion continues to affect vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities, rural communities, refugees, the elderly and young people.
Beyond access, Nalwoga identified low digital literacy as another challenge, saying many internet users lack basic online safety skills such as protecting personal information, creating secure passwords and responsibly using digital platforms.
Uganda Internet Governance Week has brought together government officials, lawyers, students, researchers, technology experts and civil society organisations to discuss internet access, digital policy and artificial intelligence governance.
The programme started with the Uganda Internet Governance School, followed by the Uganda Youth Internet Governance Forum and the Parliamentary Internet Governance Forum. It will conclude with the annual Uganda Internet Governance Forum at Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
Stakeholders say improving internet affordability, digital skills and infrastructure will be critical if Uganda is to ensure that emerging technologies such as AI benefit all citizens and not only a small section of the population.
