Airtel Uganda extends free internet to regional libraries

Following the successful launch in Kampala, Airtel Uganda on June 19 embarked on Phase II of the Public Libraries initiative with the launch of free internet connectivity to other regions in Uganda.

Phase II will see the telco extend the service to six libraries in different regions across Uganda starting with Mbale and Jinja public libraries. The other beneficiaries will include; Kabale, Kabarole, Masindi, Lira among others.

Launched early this year, the Public Libraries initiative is part of the Airtel Uganda Corporate Social Responsibility arm that aims at scaling up ICT in education by providing fast and reliable internet connectivity.

Speaking at the phase II launch in Jinja, Airtel Uganda Sales and Distribution Director, Ali Balunywa, noted that this initiative is one of the ways that Airtel is impacting local communities.

“Knowledge is a key pillar for empowerment of youth and building of local communities. Through this initiative, we are offering this community an improved experience in internet-based research, online book access and reading thus boosting digital education in Uganda,” he noted.

The guest of honour and Director of Education Standards at Ministry of Education and Sports Dr. Turyagenda Kedrace applauded Airtel Uganda for initiatives such as this that target the youth and will enhance enrolment in public libraries.

“With reliable and affordable access to the internet, service delivery especially in education will be enhanced to the benefit of the community and the nation. Reading aids comprehension. With access to fast internet, service delivery especially in education will be enhanced to the benefit of the community and the nation,” she stated. All libraries will be connected to internet with a capacity of 10Mbps.