Kanungu District has been connected to Uganda’s National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) under Phase 5 of the project, marking a significant step in the country’s digital expansion.
The launch was presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, alongside ICT Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi and NITA-U Executive Director Dr Hatwib Mugasa. The extension follows the national rollout of Phase 5 in Moroto District in December 2024.
Officials said the decision to prioritise Kanungu reflects government’s commitment to balanced development and the President’s directive that no district should be excluded from Uganda’s digital transformation.
Dr Mugasa described the project as ‘a big leap for Kanungu and its people,’ noting that expanded fibre coverage would support innovation and improve public service delivery.
Local Benefits
The backbone will connect district headquarters, sub-counties, schools, health facilities, police posts, and local government offices to high-speed internet. Residents will be able to access services such as ID applications, visas, and education resources online without traveling long distances.
Dr Baryomunsi emphasized that the infrastructure would improve access to health, education, and business services. ‘When those public institutions are connected, every member of Kanungu who walks through their doors will feel the power of high-speed internet in their hands,’ he said.
National Scope
Kanungu is one of 63 districts included in Phase 5, the largest expansion of the NBI to date. The project involves laying more than 5,000 kilometers of fibre cable, constructing 21 solar-powered transmission sites, and connecting 2,800 public institutions nationwide.
The initiative is expected to strengthen key sectors including education, health, tourism, agriculture, and security, while advancing Uganda’s goal of full digital inclusion.
With Kanungu now connected, the Kigezi region joins the rest of the country in accessing modern service delivery and opportunities in the digital economy.