Overview:
The platform, developed under the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance in collaboration with the National Information Technology Authority–Uganda (NITA-U), will allow Internet Service Providers (ISPs), content platforms, cloud services, data centres, and government networks to exchange internet traffic locally instead of routing it through international servers.
The Government of Uganda is set to launch a new digital infrastructure platform designed to keep internet traffic within the country, in a move officials say will reduce costs, improve speed, and strengthen national control over digital data.
The planned launch of National IP Peering Exchange (NIPX) due on Friday was announced by the Minister of State for National Guidance, Geoffrey Kabbyanga, at the Uganda Media Centre.
The platform, developed under the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance in collaboration with the National Information Technology Authority–Uganda (NITA-U), will allow Internet Service Providers (ISPs), content platforms, cloud services, data centres, and government networks to exchange internet traffic locally instead of routing it through international servers.
Officials say the system is aimed at improving efficiency in data exchange and reducing reliance on foreign internet routing points.
Mr Kabbyanga said the current structure, where local internet traffic is often routed outside Uganda before returning, has for years increased costs and slowed down digital services.
“For years, even simple online activities meant our data had to travel outside the country and back, adding unnecessary costs and delays,” he said.
“With NIPX, we’re reducing these inefficiencies, strengthening our digital sovereignty, and improving everyday online experiences—from video calls and e-services to digital business and learning,” he added.
He urged internet service providers, technology firms, and digital innovators to connect to the platform and collaborate in building a more efficient digital ecosystem.
“Now is the time for all players—ISPs, tech companies and digital innovators—to connect, collaborate and work together to build a faster, more secure and more resilient internet for every Ugandan,” he said.
According to a statement issued by NITA-U, the system will ensure that local internet traffic is exchanged within Uganda, reducing latency, lowering bandwidth costs, and improving overall network reliability.
“By keeping local traffic local, the platform is expected to significantly reduce latency, lower the cost of internet services, enhance network resilience, and strengthen Uganda’s digital sovereignty,” the statement reads in part.
The authority added that the initiative is part of Uganda’s broader digital transformation agenda under the Digital Uganda Strategy and Vision 2040, which seeks to position the country as a regional information and communications technology (ICT) hub.
Officials say the establishment of a national internet exchange point places Uganda among countries investing in local data infrastructure to support faster internet services and attract digital investment.
Beyond technical improvements, government hopes the platform will stimulate innovation, create employment opportunities in the digital sector, and support growth in e-commerce, online learning, and financial technology services.
The National IP Peering Exchange (NIPX) is an internet traffic management system that allows local data to be exchanged within Uganda rather than being routed through international exchange points.
By reducing the need for external routing, the system is expected to improve internet speeds for users, reduce operational costs for service providers, and enhance the efficiency of digital services across both public and private sectors.
Officials say the platform is scheduled for full operational rollout on Friday.