In a move that could reshape Uganda’s telecommunications landscape, the government has joined forces with Dubai-based Rowad Capital Commercial (RCC) to breathe new life into the state-owned Uganda Telecommunications Corporation Limited (UTCL).
The deal, sealed at State House Entebbe under the watchful eye of President Yoweri Museveni, marks a bold step toward modernizing Uganda’s digital infrastructure.
A New Chapter in Uganda’s Digital Journey
The atmosphere was electric at State House Entebbe last Friday as Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister of ICT and National Guidance, put pen to paper on what could be a game-changing partnership. The agreement aims to transform UTCL from its current state into a dynamic player in the regional telecommunications arena.
“Our main interest is to get investors to create wealth and jobs,” President Museveni declared during the ceremony, his words echoing through the historic halls of State House. It’s a statement that cuts to the heart of Uganda’s broader economic strategy – leveraging foreign investment to fuel domestic growth and employment.
Dubai Expertise Meets Ugandan Potential
For RCC’s CEO Chaher Al Taki, this partnership represents more than just a business deal. “Uganda is our second home,” he shared with evident enthusiasm, “and we can invest in more projects here as we had promised.” This sentiment suggests that RCC’s involvement could extend beyond telecommunications, potentially opening doors to broader investment opportunities in Uganda’s growing economy.
The Path to Digital Transformation
The partnership’s scope is ambitious. At its core, the agreement aims to:
- Modernize UTCL’s infrastructure
- Enhance cross-border telecommunications services
- Strengthen Uganda’s position in the regional digital economy
- Create new employment opportunities in the tech sector
Government Support at the Highest Levels
The strong governmental backing for this initiative was evident in the high-profile attendance at the signing ceremony. Hon. Henry Musasizi, Minister of State for Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, emphasized the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for such public-private partnerships.
Dr. Baryomunsi, in particular, highlighted President Museveni’s personal involvement in bringing the deal to fruition. “He has been personally involved in ensuring that this partnership matures to reality,” the ICT Minister noted, underscoring the strategic importance of this telecommunications revival project to Uganda’s leadership.
Building Bridges Beyond Borders
RCC Chairman Kantu Moses took time to acknowledge the broader support network that made this partnership possible, including First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet Museveni, and Evelyn Anite, the minister of state for investment and Privatisation. Their involvement suggests that the government sees this telecommunications partnership as part of a larger strategy for national development.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Ugandan Telecommunications
This partnership represents more than just a business transaction – it’s a strategic move to position Uganda as a significant player in the region’s digital economy. By bringing in RCC’s expertise and resources, UTCL aims to transform into a competitive force that can stand shoulder to shoulder with private telecommunications providers.
The government’s commitment to providing necessary frameworks for such public-private partnerships indicates a broader vision for national development. As Uganda continues to embrace digital transformation, this revitalization of UTCL could serve as a catalyst for further technological advancement and economic growth in the region.
With RCC’s proven track record and the government’s unwavering support, the stage is set for what could be a transformative chapter in Uganda’s telecommunications history. The success of this partnership could not only revolutionize UTCL but also pave the way for increased foreign investment in Uganda’s growing technology sector.