By: Nana
Appiah Acquaye
Uganda has been elected to
the Administrative Council of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU),
securing a seat on the continental body responsible for guiding Africa's
telecommunications and digital development over the next four years.
The election took place
during the 7th Ordinary Session of the African Telecommunications Union
Conference of Plenipotentiaries (CPL-26) in Abuja, Nigeria, where Member States
also elected Eng. Kezias Kazuba Mwale of Zambia as the Union's next
Secretary-General. Mwale will succeed Kenya's John Omo, who has led the ATU for
the past eight years.
Uganda's election to the
Administrative Council positions the country among the leaders responsible for
shaping continental policies on digital connectivity, telecommunications
regulation, spectrum management, cybersecurity, digital innovation and emerging
technologies.
The Administrative Council
serves as the ATU's governing body between Conferences of Plenipotentiaries,
providing strategic oversight, monitoring the implementation of the Union's
programmes, strengthening governance and coordinating Africa's common positions
ahead of major international telecommunications and ICT forums.
The election is widely
viewed as recognition of Uganda's growing contribution to regional ICT policy
and its commitment to advancing Africa's digital transformation agenda through
greater cooperation among Member States.
As Africa continues to
accelerate digitalisation across sectors including education, healthcare,
finance, trade and public services, the Council will play a key role in guiding
policies that expand broadband access, strengthen digital infrastructure, promote
cybersecurity, support innovation and improve digital inclusion across the
continent.
Uganda's new role is
expected to enhance its participation in regional decision-making on
communications infrastructure, cross-border digital cooperation, artificial
intelligence and internet governance while enabling the country to advocate for
policies that support both national priorities and Africa's broader digital
ambitions.
The African
Telecommunications Union, a specialised agency of the African Union, works to
harmonise telecommunications and ICT policies, strengthen regional
collaboration and ensure Africa presents coordinated positions on key digital
issues in global policy and regulatory forums.
Uganda's election
underscores the confidence of fellow Member States in the country's ability to
contribute to the strategic direction of the Union and support efforts to build
a more connected, resilient and digitally inclusive Africa.
