Uganda to launch new cybersecurity rules for government bodies

Uganda’s technology regulator is set to launch an updated national cybersecurity framework aimed at protecting government systems from a growing wave of digital threats.

The National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) will unveil the revised National Information Security Framework at a ceremony in the capital, Kampala, on Wednesday.

The framework sets out how ministries, departments and agencies should manage cyber risks and protect sensitive information.

It has been updated following a comprehensive review intended to address emerging threats and bring Uganda’s security practices in line with international standards.

The revision was carried out under the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project, a government initiative funded by the World Bank through its International Development Association.

NITA-U says the new framework gives government bodies practical tools to assess how prepared they are for cyber attacks.

It also sets minimum security requirements for critical infrastructure and operational technology – the systems that keep essential services running.

Wednesday’s launch, at the Four Points by Sheraton hotel, marks the formal adoption of the framework across government.

Officials are expected to set out what institutions must do to comply with the new requirements, and attendees will be given an overview of the framework and its implementation toolkit.

Accounting officers and representatives from government institutions have been invited, with NITA-U stressing that co-operation across the public sector is essential to building what it calls a resilient and secure digital ecosystem.

The authority says the framework will provide a stronger foundation for protecting government systems and delivering secure digital public services as Uganda pushes ahead with its digital transformation plans.