Uganda’s digital transformation will only succeed if cybersecurity and online safety are treated as core priorities alongside expanding internet access, a digital rights organization has said.
Speaking during the State of the Digital Economy (SODE 2026) conference, the Digital Defenders Protection Initiative (DPI) urged policymakers and technology stakeholders to ensure that digital services remain safe and trustworthy as more Ugandans embrace life online.
DPI representative Noeline Nassuuna said technology has the potential to improve livelihoods, strengthen businesses, create jobs and enhance public services. However, she cautioned that those benefits can only be realized when users have confidence that their personal information is protected and digital platforms are secure.
Her remarks reflected a broader shift in discussions at the conference, where participants argued that Uganda’s digital agenda is no longer centered solely on expanding connectivity. Increasingly, attention is turning to how citizens can safely use online platforms for business, education, innovation and access to government services.
Nassuuna said digital inclusion should not be measured only by the number of people connected to the internet. She argued that meaningful inclusion also depends on creating an environment where individuals can use digital tools without fear of fraud, identity theft or cybercrime.
She warned that online scams continue to target unsuspecting users, particularly through fake promotions designed to steal personal information. Fraudsters often entice victims with promises of free products, shopping vouchers or large internet data bundles, exploiting the growing popularity of mobile-based digital services.
According to Nassuuna, strengthening public awareness is just as important as investing in digital infrastructure. She said organizations, businesses and ordinary citizens all need practical knowledge on how to recognize cyber threats and protect themselves online.
The Digital Defenders Protection Initiative works to improve digital security and support safer online environments, particularly by helping organizations strengthen their security practices and build trust in digital systems.
The organization’s message echoed wider conversations throughout SODE 2026, where speakers have emphasized that Uganda’s digital economy will depend on a combination of reliable infrastructure, digital skills, supportive policies and strong cybersecurity.
As more government services, financial transactions and business activities migrate to digital platforms, conference participants said public trust will become one of the country’s most valuable digital assets.
They argued that while expanding internet access remains important, protecting users from cyber threats will ultimately determine how confidently Ugandans embrace the opportunities created by the country’s growing digital economy.
