Internet use in Uganda surges, but majority still offline

Over the past few years, Uganda has witnessed a digital transformation, marked by a steady increase in internet usage across the country. From bustling urban centers to remote villages, more Ugandans are coming online, driven by the widespread adoption of mobile phones and a growing appetite for social media.

However, this shift is not without its challenges, as a significant segment of the population remains disconnected, revealing a digital divide that is difficult to ignore.

The latest report from Twaweza, an East African research and advocacy organization, paints a picture of an evolving digital landscape. Based on data from 2,741 respondents, the study indicates that internet usage has been on the rise since 2021, primarily for social interaction.

According to the findings, 15% of online Ugandans use the internet to chat with friends, while 13% engage with social media platforms like Facebook and TikTok. Watching news and conducting research each account for 9% of online activities, showcasing the growing reliance on the internet for information and education.

Marie Nanyanzi, Senior Program Officer at Twaweza, attributes this surge to the increased accessibility of smartphones and the appeal of social media, especially among younger demographics. “We’ve seen a significant uptick in mobile phone ownership, which has facilitated access to the internet. Platforms like WhatsApp have become integral to communication, with two out of ten Ugandans now using the service, up from just one out of ten a few years ago,” she explained.

This shift towards digital communication is changing the way Ugandans interact, share information, and stay informed. Social media, in particular, has become a powerful tool for community engagement, with users leveraging platforms to discuss current events, share opinions, and connect with others. For many, it offers a voice and a space to express themselves freely.

Digital Divide: A Tale of Two Realities

Despite the rapid growth in internet usage, the Twaweza report highlights a stark reality: 76% of Ugandans did not access the internet in the previous month. The reasons are varied, but they paint a clear picture of the barriers that continue to hinder digital inclusivity.

“The high cost of smartphones, expensive data packages, and a lack of digital literacy are significant barriers for most Ugandans,” Nanyanzi noted. “While urban areas like Kampala and Wakiso have seen increased internet adoption, rural areas still struggle with access. Many people cannot afford the necessary gadgets, and those who can often lack the skills to use them effectively.”

Dr. Fred Kakooza, a Senior Lecturer at Makerere University’s Department of Journalism and Communication, argues that this divide is more than just a gap in access—it’s a divide in opportunity. “Digital platforms have opened new avenues for participation, allowing people to share their views, engage in dialogue, and contribute to societal conversations. However, the reality is that these platforms are dominated by a small, educated elite,” Dr. Kakooza remarked. “The majority of Ugandans, especially those in rural areas, are left out of these conversations because they simply do not have the means to participate.”

The rise of social media in Uganda has been a double-edged sword. On one hand, it has democratized information sharing, allowing people to bypass traditional media and engage directly with each other. Platforms like Facebook and TikTok have seen a rapid increase in users, with Ugandans using these channels to share news, entertain, and even promote businesses.

However, the digital space also faces challenges. The influx of misinformation, cyberbullying, and data privacy concerns have become pressing issues as more people join social media. The trend has raised questions about the responsibility of digital platforms and the need for better regulations to protect users.

WhatsApp, the most popular social media platform in Uganda, has become a hub for family groups, community updates, and business transactions. Yet, its dominance also highlights the limited digital literacy among users who may rely heavily on just one platform, missing out on the broader internet ecosystem.

According to Nanyanzi, “The rise of platforms like WhatsApp has made communication easier and more accessible, but it has also confined users to a narrow segment of the digital world. Many users are not exploring other online resources that could enhance their knowledge and skills.”

Bridging the Gap: Steps Towards a Connected Future

The growth in internet use has created new opportunities for business, education, and social interaction. However, the persistent digital divide remains a barrier to realizing the full potential of the internet in Uganda. Experts believe that a multi-faceted approach is necessary to bridge this gap.

Dr. Kakooza emphasizes the need for targeted digital literacy programs, especially in rural areas. “Providing access to gadgets is only part of the solution,” he said. “We need to equip people with the skills to use these tools effectively. Digital literacy should be integrated into the education curriculum, and we need community-based initiatives to train older generations who may not have had exposure to these technologies.”

Moreover, addressing the high cost of data is crucial for increasing internet penetration. The Ugandan government has made some strides in this direction by reducing taxes on internet data, but more needs to be done to make connectivity affordable for all.

Nanyanzi also calls for collaboration between the private sector and civil society to develop more inclusive digital services. “Telecom companies could play a significant role by offering affordable data packages and promoting zero-rated educational content,” she suggested. “Such initiatives would not only increase internet adoption but also empower citizens to use the internet in ways that benefit their personal and professional lives.”

Looking Ahead: The Promise of a Digital Uganda

As Uganda continues to navigate its digital journey, the focus must shift towards ensuring that the benefits of internet access reach all citizens. The potential for economic growth, social development, and improved quality of life through digital inclusion is immense.

The rise in internet usage, driven by mobile phones and social media, signals a promising trend, but the work is far from over. Bridging the digital divide will require a collective effort from the government, private sector, and civil society to create an environment where every Ugandan can participate fully in the digital age.

For now, Uganda’s digital transformation is a story of progress tempered by persistent challenges. The next chapter will depend on how effectively these challenges are addressed, paving the way for a more inclusive and connected society.