In a world where digital content has become a new form of currency, the Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Hon. Nyombi Thembo, has called for a radical shift toward ethics and responsibility in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Speaking at the Content Moderation Symposium 2025 held in Kampala on Thursday, Hon. Thembo delivered a sobering address on the double-edged sword of digital innovation.
He warned that while Uganda’s digital landscape has evolved to offer unprecedented power through streaming and AI-driven tools, this ‘great power’ is being increasingly weaponised to undermine social stability.
Hon. Thembo said “The proliferation of AI has moved beyond simple convenience, giving rise to sophisticated threats that endanger national peace.”
These threats, he noted, include but aren’t limited to the following;
Algorithmic Amplification: The automated promotion of divisive and inflammatory content.
AI-Generated Disinformation: Deepfakes and synthetic news designed to mislead the public.
Cyber Harassment: The use of digital tools to target and intimidate individuals.
“These aren’t just online problems,” Hon. Thembo remarked, adding, “They have real consequences for peace and social cohesion in our country and the world at large.”
The Computer Misuse Act 2022
Addressing those who might abuse these technologies, the UCC chief issued a firm reminder that the Computer Misuse (Amendment) Act 2022 is in full effect.
“The law serves as Uganda’s primary defense against digital malpractice, with stringent penalties for those found guilty,” he stated, detailing the penalties for culprits as follows;
Hate Speech: Attracts up to 7 years’ imprisonment or a fine of Shs10M
Cyber Stalking: Attracts up to 7 years’ imprisonment on conviction or Shs10M fine.
Malicious Information: Attracts up to 7 years’ imprisonment or Shs10M fine.
Unauthorised Access: Attracts up to 10 years’ imprisonment.
Hon. Thembo emphasised that the UCC is not just monitoring traditional media, but also actively overseeing the digital influence of content creators to ensure they remain within the boundaries of the law.
Thoughtful Regulation in the AI Age
Comparing content to financial currency, Hon. Thembo noted that both can be used to build or destroy. He revealed that to prevent the latter, the UCC is prioritising thoughtful regulation and effective content moderation.
The Symposium concluded with a call to innovators to embed ethics into their AI models from the start, rather than as an afterthought.
Hon. Thembo concluded by noting that as Uganda continues to integrate AI into its economy, the UCC remains committed to balancing the freedom to innovate with the mandate to protect the public.
“Content is a new currency… that is why effective content moderation and thoughtful regulation are essential to ensure this power is used responsibly,” he stressed.