The Ugandan government has announced a groundbreaking reduction in internet costs by 50%. As of August 1, 2023, the government will halve the price of data provided through the national backbone fibre, lowering it from $70 to $35 per Mbps per month.
During the announcement at the Uganda Media Centre, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baroymunsi, expressed his delight at this milestone achievement. He emphasized that this price cut places government offices connected to the National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure at a distinct advantage, enjoying the lowest internet prices in the market.
The reduction is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the cost of doing business by the government, leading to improved provision of e-services and facilitating digitization. This bold move solidifies the government’s position as the undisputed market leader in setting internet prices and is predicted to drive substantial savings on the government’s communication budget.
Dr. Hatwib Mugasa, the Executive Director of the National Information Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U), highlighted the significance of the cost reduction. He stated that it will not only catalyze the adoption of e-government services but also pave the way for improved access to online services for citizens.
The extension of the National Backbone Infrastructure to all regions of the country, covering 4,300km and connecting around 1466 government offices, 53 districts, and nine border points, has been instrumental in enhancing government efficiency and transparency through e-government applications.
NITA-U has worked diligently to consistently lower the cost of internet bandwidth in Uganda, especially for government institutions. By maintaining long-term plans to decrease bandwidth prices, NITA-U has successfully contributed to lowering the cost of communication across the government and extending the geographic reach of broadband networks, benefitting citizens and the private sector alike.