By Spy Uganda
Almost 15 years after Uganda imposed a ban on importing used electronic devices to prevent the country from becoming a dumping ground, the government has revealed plans to lift the restriction in a bid to improve access and affordability for citizens.
The announcement was made by Joshua Akandwanaho, IT Services Advisor at the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), during the Access to Information Day 2025 commemoration held on October 7 at the Media Challenge Initiative offices in Nsambya, Kampala. The event was organized by the Africa Freedom of Information Center-Uganda (AFIC) under the theme “Ensuring Access to Environmental Information in the Digital Age.”
Akandwanaho highlighted persistent challenges in accessing public information, including delayed responses from institutions, limited awareness of citizens’ rights, and the high cost of devices and internet services. He revealed that the government is collaborating with the Ministry of Finance to make devices more affordable.
“Government initially banned the importation of used computers around 2009–2010 to prevent dumping by developed economies,” Akandwanaho explained. “But this policy has made it difficult for citizens, especially at the grassroots level, to access smartphones and computers. We are investigating a repeal of this ban, which we believe will increase access to essential devices.”
At the same event, AFIC Executive Director Gilbert Sendugwa warned of potential legal action against public agencies that fail to respond to information requests. He cited a study covering 2018 to 2025, which showed that of 113 requests made to public institutions, only 9.7% received any response, with Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the Ministry of Gender being the most frequently approached.
“We will continue building capacities of public institutions to comply with the Access to Information Act and hold unresponsive agencies accountable through litigation,” Sendugwa said. He added that while Uganda was among the first four African countries to enact access-to-information legislation, implementation remains weak, with only half of the few requests responded to within statutory deadlines.
The event also focused on environmental information and citizen engagement. Marie Nanyanzi, Senior Programmes Officer at Twaweza East Africa, presented findings from the study “A Burning Planet? It is Already Happening”, based on data from 2,762 respondents collected between October and November 2023. The study revealed that 57% of Ugandans perceive the climate as worsening, while 86% are concerned about its impact on their lives.
Nanyanzi emphasized the need for multiple communication platforms—including radio, community dialogues, mobile alerts, and digital media—to reach citizens beyond urban, young, and affluent populations. She also called for investment in rural digital infrastructure and training of intermediaries such as local leaders, radio hosts, and civil society actors to interpret and disseminate environmental information effectively.
In his keynote address, Akandwanaho reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency, collaboration, and media freedom. He stressed that access to information is foundational for democracy and civic participation, calling on citizens, journalists, and institutions to engage responsibly in the flow of information.
“Let us build a Uganda where information flows freely, citizens participate fully, and democracy prevails without intimidation or harassment. Access to information is not just a right; it underpins all other rights,” Akandwanaho concluded.
