After Access 2022: Uganda Report, part of a seven-country study on Africa’s digital transformation post-COVID-19, shows that internet access in Uganda has grown from 8% in 2018 to 22% in 2022, but most adults remain offline. Rural populations, women, and low-income groups are disproportionately excluded. While 68% of adults own a mobile phone, only 16% own smartphones and just 2% own computers, limiting meaningful connectivity. High data costs, multiple taxes, and low levels of digital literacy deepen these divides.
The study finds that internet use is concentrated in urban areas and often limited to social media and entertainment, with fewer users engaging in online education, work, or e-government service platforms. Microenterprises, especially those run by women, struggle to adopt digital tools due to affordability and skills barriers.
Key recommendations include lowering taxes on ICT services and devices, strengthening competition, investing in digital skills, and improving access to affordable devices and community connectivity.
