Uganda set to host MEA digital summit amid regional connectivity push

Kampala, Uganda – Uganda is set to host a landmark digital transformation summit, bringing together regional leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to explore ways to harness digital technologies for economic growth and development.

The Middle East and Africa Digital Transformation Summit (MEA-DTS), scheduled to take place from June 25 to 27, 2025, in Kampala, aims to promote digital innovation, financial inclusion, and regional connectivity.

“The MEA-DTS is consistent with Uganda Vision 2040, where we have ICTs as pivotal to transforming Uganda from a predominantly agricultural community to a modern and prosperous country,” said Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Cabinet Minister for ICT and National Guidance.

“Further, the summit supports the EAC Vision 2050, by leveraging ICTs for value addition in critical sectors like agriculture, tourism, minerals, oil & gas, and knowledge, to create more jobs and boost livelihoods,” he added.

The summit, themed “Driving Digital Transformation for a Connected and Inclusive MEA Region”, will be hosted under the patronage of President Yoweri K. Museveni.

According to Innocent Kawooya, CEO of HiPipo, a leading entity in ICT and financial inclusion in Africa, the summit will provide a platform for meaningful deliberations on digital innovation, financial services, policy, and regulation.

“We are happy to bring this Summit to Uganda and look forward to meaningful deliberations on important aspects such as digital innovation, financial services, policy, and regulation,” Kawooya said.

Dr. Jonathan Pinifolo, Chief Operating Officer at COMESA Business Council, emphasized the importance of leveraging digital tools, policies, and innovations to facilitate seamless trade across borders.

“COMESA is the biggest trading block in Africa and we believe that it is important to connect with the rest of Africa and the Middle East by leveraging digital tools, policies and innovations for trade,” Pinifolo said.

The MEA-DTS is being co-organized by the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, COMESA Business Council, and HiPipo.