By Shamim Saad and Babra Nambuya
Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) and the ICT Association in Uganda (ICTAUg) collaborated to host the National ICT Career Day, an event aimed at bringing together ICT professionals ranging from novices to seasoned innovators.
Held at the UIA auditorium on Thursday, April 25, at the Uganda Business Facilitation Centre (UBFC), the event served as a platform for seeking new opportunities, gaining insights, and fostering investment connections to propel the growth of the ICT sector.
In his address, Peter Muramira, the Deputy Director of Business Development at UIA, emphasized the organization’s focus on ICT, particularly data, acknowledging the global interest sparked by the younger generation’s embrace of technology in East Africa.
He commended ICTAUg for their partnership and endorsed their commitment to promoting ICT in the country.
Richard Nuwenyesiga, Acting Deputy Director of the Domestic Investment Division (DID) at UIA, highlighted the incorporation of ICT into the National SME Portal to assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in competing and exploring markets.
“I encourage you to leverage the platform’s resources, including marketing modules, training, and visibility, for both domestic and international trade,” he said.
Nuwenyesiga also revealed UIA’s plans for a youth apprenticeship program to bridge the gap between students and SMEs.
Badru Ntege, a Board Member of the Private Sector Foundation Uganda, urged ICT professionals to harness the power of technology to develop financial solutions and enhance digital communication capabilities for a globalized society.
“Let’s use what we know to improve communities by encouraging creativity, moral responsibility, and adaptability. There are no rules to follow, just a strong desire to dream big and change the world.” he said
Steven Kateihwaho, the Country Commercial Manager of DHL Uganda, emphasized the potential benefits of the digital revolution for businesses of all sizes, highlighting the growth of cross-border e-commerce and the opportunities it presents for diversification, particularly in the face of challenges like the Covid-19 pandemic.
Jackie Namara, Chief Executive Officer of Iguru Consult Ltd, emphasized the significance of personal branding for ICT professionals.
“Be mindful of your online presence and engage responsibly on social media to cultivate a positive image and elevate your careers” she noted
In her closing remarks, Hope Waira, Senior Investment Executive at UIA, urged ICT professionals to make the most of the career day by focusing on tangible outcomes, whether through networking, learning, or pitching ideas, to propel their careers forward.
By fostering collaboration, promoting innovation, and providing resources for growth, events like the National ICT Career Day play a vital role in advancing Uganda’s ICT sector and driving economic development.