The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Information Communication and Technology and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, has urged the new Airtel Uganda Managing Director Soumendra Sahu, to leverage ICT networks to create more jobs in the country.
Dr. Zawedde made the remarks this week as she welcomed Soumendra Sahu, the MD of Airtel Uganda, to the country.
Sahu had paid a courtesy call to Dr. Zawedde at the ministry’s headquarters and it was during their meeting that she emphasized the importance of leveraging Bharti Airtel’s robust ICT networks to create Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) jobs in Uganda.
During their interaction, Zawedde highlighted Uganda’s focus on developing ICT skills and high-speed networks to tap into the global BPO economy, noting that this is one of the easiest avenues for job creation.
The Permanent Secretary also noted Uganda’s long-standing trade relationship with India and expressed the ICT Ministry’s commitment to working with Airtel Uganda to create employment opportunities for young Ugandans.
She hailed Airtel Uganda for promoting affordable internet access through the National Broadband Policy, noting that it is increasing accessibility to the internet for many Ugandans.
Zawedde however challenged Airtel Uganda to develop innovative, youth-focused digital solutions that would drive meaningful participation in the digital economy.
Highlighting the company’s commitment to technological innovation and inclusivity, Zawedde urged Sahu to utilize Airtel’s robust ICT networks to create more jobs in Uganda, especially in the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector.
In his remarks, Sahu reaffirmed Airtel Uganda’s commitment to technological innovation and inclusivity, emphasizing that Airtel pioneered 5G and VoLTE technology in 2024.
He however highlighted the need for all stakeholders to enhance smartphone penetration in the country, assuring the country of Airtel’s continued investment
Notably, Sahu brings a wealth of experience to the table, and his leadership is expected to further boost Airtel’s contribution to Uganda’s economic development.
Market Share
Airtel Uganda has been a key player in the country’s telecommunications sector, and its investments in cutting-edge technologies have been instrumental in driving innovation and progress. For instance, Airtel was the first to pioneer 5G and VoLTE technology in Uganda in 2024.
Airtel Uganda’s contributions to Uganda’s economic development are multifaceted. The company has invested heavily in network development, with a contribution of Shs.35 billion to date.
Additionally, Airtel Uganda has paid UGX 34.8 billion to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to support rural communications infrastructure development.
Airtel Uganda’s economic impact extends beyond its investments in infrastructure.
The company has a significant presence in the country, with a network of 230,000 agents, 96 landlords, and over 308 local suppliers.
This has created a ripple effect in the economy, with many Ugandans benefiting from employment and business opportunities created by Airtel’s operations.
Digital Transformation
In terms of digital transformation, Airtel Uganda has been at the forefront of promoting affordable internet access through the National Broadband Policy. This has increased accessibility to the internet for many Ugandans, driving digital inclusion and economic growth.
As Sahu takes the helm at Airtel Uganda, he has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to technological innovation and inclusivity.
With his leadership, Airtel Uganda is expected to continue playing a vital role in driving Uganda’s economic development and digital transformation.