Oyam, Uganda | The Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET), in partnership with netLabs!UG and Internet Society Foundation has launched a groundbreaking initiative in Oyam District aimed at expanding inclusive internet access and empowering women, girls, and other marginalized groups through digital connectivity.
The initiative aims to provide free internet connectivity to underserved groups, particularly women, girls, persons with disabilities, and school-going children, enabling them to access online resources and participate more fully in Uganda’s evolving digital landscape.
The project is set to establish vital digital infrastructure in targeted communities, allowing users to access the internet without cost and addressing the long-standing challenge of unaffordable data rates in rural areas.
Speaking on behalf of the district authorities, Ronald Dila, the Oyam District Information Technology Officer, welcomed the initiative and expressed the district’s full support.
He stated that the project could become fully operational within a short period if its implementation work plan is followed as scheduled.
He described the initiative as timely and said it aligns directly with the Government of Uganda’s Digital Transformation Agenda 2030, which emphasizes the expansion of digital infrastructure and efforts to bridge the connectivity gap.
He acknowledged that while government initiatives are ongoing, the pace remains slow and stressed the importance of involving non-state actors like WOUGNET in accelerating progress.
Dila pointed out that access to information has become a fundamental international human right and asserted that widening internet access is essential to inclusive national development.
He further noted that the project would not only improve connectivity but also enhance access to services such as education, healthcare, trade, agriculture, and governance.
He explained that when communities are connected to digital platforms, they are better equipped to conduct research, analyze information, and make informed decisions, which in turn drives innovation and local development.
He confirmed that the district, through his office, would work in close partnership with WOUGNET to ensure the initiative’s successful rollout.
He emphasized Oyam District’s ambition to become a model for digital transformation in Northern Uganda.
Dila also remarked that the project would unlock significant socio-economic opportunities for young people, particularly those in the creative industries.
He said that access to platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and other social media networks would allow young people to develop digital skills, share content, and explore monetization opportunities.
He concluded that by offering free internet, the project would ease the burden of high data costs currently facing many households, and described the initiative as a timely and meaningful step toward achieving digital inclusion and economic empowerment.
The WOUGNET-Labnet initiative reflects a growing movement of civil society-led digital inclusion efforts and reinforces the central role of technology in Uganda’s development goals, ensuring that marginalized communities are not left behind in the digital age.
