President Yoweri Museveni yesterday launched Phase 5 of the National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) in Karamoja, a subregion often characterized by developmental challenges.
The launch underscores Uganda’s commitment to modernizing households and bolstering key economic sectors, including commercial agriculture, industry, services, and information and communications technology (ICT).
Speaking at the event before meeting Karamoja leaders, President Museveni highlighted the transformative potential of the NBI, emphasizing its role in reducing business costs and enhancing connectivity. “This infrastructure will link all administrative units, including supporting parishes implementing the Parish Development Model (PDM),” he said.
The President also extended gratitude to the Chinese Government for its partnership in financing critical infrastructure projects through soft loans facilitated by the Exim Bank of China. Phase 5 of the NBI is among several initiatives funded under this collaboration.
The event was attended by a high-level delegation, including Vice President Rtd Major Jesca Alupo, Prime Minister Rt Hon Robinah Nabbanja, various ministers, and local leaders, reflecting the government’s collective push toward bridging regional disparities in connectivity and economic opportunities.
The NBI rollout aims to position Karamoja as a digitally empowered subregion, fostering innovation and improving service delivery in both public and private sectors. As the infrastructure comes online, it is expected to enhance access to digital tools for education, health, and commerce, further integrating Karamoja into Uganda’s broader economic framework.
This development marks a critical milestone in Uganda’s digital transformation journey, with the promise of greater inclusion and competitiveness for one of its most underserved regions.
