UCC to distribute free tablet devices to 23 districts

KAMPALA, UGANDA — The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) is set to distribute free tablets to households in 23 districts across the country, as part of its efforts to promote digital inclusion and increase access to information and communications technology (ICT).

According to a bid notice published by the UCC, the commission is seeking a service provider to supply and distribute 500 tablets to households in the targeted districts. The bid notice, which was published on November 20, 2024, invites eligible bidders to submit their proposals for the provision of digital literacy training and tablet distribution services.

The project is being implemented under the Uganda Communications Universal Service Access Fund (UCUSAF), formerly known as the Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF). UCUSAF is a fund established by the UCC to promote the development of communication services in rural and underserved areas.

The UCC’s initiative is aimed at bridging the digital divide and promoting digital literacy among households in rural and underserved areas. The commission believes that the distribution of free tablets will enable households to access a wide range of digital services, including education, healthcare, and financial services.

The 23 districts targeted for the tablet distribution program are located in various regions of the country, including central, eastern, northern, and western Uganda. The UCC has set aside funds for the program, which is expected to be implemented over the next few months.

The bid notice requires bidders to provide a detailed proposal outlining their experience and qualifications, as well as their approach to delivering the digital literacy training and tablet distribution services. The UCC will evaluate the bids based on their technical and financial merits, and will award the contract to the best-evaluated bidder.

The tablet distribution program is part of the UCC’s broader efforts to promote digital inclusion and increase access to ICT services in Uganda. The commission has been working to improve the country’s digital infrastructure, including the expansion of mobile broadband services and the development of digital literacy programs.