Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, has declared a significant reduction in internet costs, slashing the price from $70 to $35 per megabyte per second per month. The announcement was made in a bid to promote widespread internet usage and digital accessibility among Ugandans.
Minister Baryomunsi emphasized that this move marks a pivotal achievement, as it is expected to attract more citizens to utilize government internet services and, in turn, encourage private service providers to follow suit by reducing their costs.
Speaking about the broader vision of digital inclusion, Minister Chris Baryomunsi urged everyone to embrace smartphones as a means to stay connected in the digital age. He remarked, “We need everybody to start using smartphones; you cannot be constricted by outdated methods.” By advocating for the affordability of smart devices, the Minister aims to empower Ugandans with the means to purchase these essential tools for digital connectivity.
This reduction in internet costs is expected to play a crucial role in bridging the digital divide, making it more feasible for a larger portion of the population to access online resources, educational materials, and essential services. As more citizens gain access to affordable internet services, it is anticipated that Uganda will witness a surge in technological adoption and economic growth.
With this landmark decision, the Ugandan government demonstrates its commitment to advancing digital infrastructure and fostering a technologically savvy population.