The Government has signaled its willingness to study proposals aimed at reducing the cost of smartphones in Uganda after Huawei Technologies Uganda presented recommendations intended to accelerate digital inclusion and expand participation in the country’s digital economy.
During a high level meeting at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development headquarters, the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Henry Musasizi, met a Huawei delegation led by the company’s Managing Director, Zhang Hao (Edward), to discuss measures that could make smart devices more affordable for Ugandans.
The engagement, held as Huawei marks 25 years of operations in Uganda, focused on policy proposals including tax incentives for smartphones and other interventions aimed at increasing access to affordable digital devices.
Huawei said the proposals are intended to raise Uganda’s smartphone penetration from the current estimated 46 percent, enabling more people to access digital services, online business opportunities, education and e-government platforms.
Minister Musasizi welcomed the proposals, describing them as an important contribution to Uganda’s digital transformation agenda. He said expanding access to affordable smart devices would improve service delivery, strengthen digital inclusion and support the country’s economic growth.
He noted that the discussions had provided valuable insights for the Ministry of Finance, adding that Government would undertake further research and detailed analysis before making any decisions on smartphone tax policies.
“This engagement has been an eye opener for the ministry regarding developments in the technology sector. We shall conduct more in depth studies and research to make an informed decision that benefits the people of Uganda,” Musasizi said.
The minister also commended Huawei for its contribution to Uganda’s digital transformation over the past 25 years, citing its support for the Government’s Tenfold Growth Strategy through investments in digital connectivity, ICT skills development and wider access to technology.
He encouraged the company to continue investing in ICT talent development, saying equipping young Ugandans with digital skills would strengthen the country’s Science, Technology and Innovation sector and support long term economic development.
Huawei executives reaffirmed the company’s commitment to working with the Government to promote digital inclusion, innovation and affordable access to technology, describing smartphone affordability as a key factor in expanding Uganda’s digital economy.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their partnership in advancing Uganda’s digital transformation agenda and promoting sustainable economic development through technology.
Also attending the meeting were the Director of Economic Development, Moses Kaggwa, Assistant Commissioner Collins Inkesha, and other senior officials from Huawei Technologies Uganda.
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