KAMPALA – In a significant milestone for Uganda’s digital transformation agenda, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, has been awarded the prestigious International Computer Driving License (ICDL) Africa Recognition Award 2024. Announced at the annual ICDL Africa summit, this continental accolade honours Dr. Zawedde’s instrumental role in advancing Uganda’s digital landscape and her sustained commitment to harnessing technology as a vehicle for social and economic development.
The award reflects Dr. Zawedde’s strategic approach to digital modernization, where initiatives aimed at improving digital literacy, expanding e-Government services, and bridging the digital divide have become central to Uganda’s progress. Her emphasis on creating an inclusive digital environment, particularly through upskilling government employees and establishing partnerships to deliver digital training, underscores the Ministry’s vision to integrate technology across public and private sectors.
The award also highlights Dr. Zawedde’s career-long dedication to integrating technology as a catalyst for national development. “Technology isn’t just about digital tools—it’s about transforming lives and livelihoods,” Dr. Zawedde noted. “From my early days in the tech sector to my current role, I’ve seen how digital solutions can drive real social and economic impact for our citizens.”
Central to Dr. Zawedde’s vision has been the digital modernization of Uganda’s public sector. Under her leadership, the Ministry launched an ambitious initiative to upskill government employees digitally, recognising that a digitally proficient civil service is critical for effective e-Government. “For e-Government to succeed, our public servants must be digitally fluent,” Dr. Zawedde explained. “When government employees embrace digital tools, we can deliver services more efficiently, reduce bureaucracy, and bring government closer to the people.”
This digital skilling program for civil servants has already shown promising results, including increased adoption of digital platforms across government departments and a significant reduction in operational costs through automation.
Under Dr. Zawedde’s guidance, Uganda has become a regional leader in digital innovation, implementing a comprehensive Digital Transformation Roadmap that serves as a model for other African nations. Her tenure has seen the launch of targeted programs to bridge the digital divide in rural areas, the establishment of global partnerships to enhance digital skills certification, and initiatives to boost women’s and youth participation in the digital economy.
Peter Maina, ICDL Africa’s Regional Director, praised Dr. Zawedde’s impact, noting, “Dr. Zawedde’s commitment to digital transformation goes beyond infrastructure development. She has consistently shown that technology, when properly leveraged, can be a powerful tool for social inclusion and economic empowerment.”
Under Dr. Zawedde’s stewardship, Uganda’s digital literacy rates have surged, with over 1,000 citizens receiving digital skills certification in the past year. This emphasis on digital inclusion has led to a notable increase in technology adoption in traditionally underserved areas. Key achievements include establishing partnerships for internationally recognized digital skills certifications, setting up digital one-stop centers to make government services more accessible, and developing policy frameworks that support technology-driven governance.
Looking ahead, the Ministry has ambitious plans to accelerate Uganda’s digital transformation, including expanding high-speed internet access to remote areas, integrating digital literacy into educational curricula, establishing innovation hubs across the country, advancing digital skills training for government employees, and implementing an integrated e-Government platform. “Our vision is of a Uganda where every citizen, regardless of their location or background, can access government services at their fingertips,” Dr. Zawedde stated, emphasizing the importance of both infrastructure and a digitally competent civil service.
The ICDL Africa Recognition Award honours outstanding contributions to digital advancement across Africa, underscoring Dr. Zawedde’s pivotal role in positioning Uganda at the forefront of the continent’s digital transformation.
About ICDL Africa
The International Computer Driving License (ICDL) is the world’s leading computer skills certification program, with a presence in over 100 countries. ICDL Africa is dedicated to promoting digital literacy and skills development across the continent.