dfcu, ICT Ministry partner to boost digital skills, innovation

KAMPALA, Uganda — The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and the dfcu Foundation have signed a strategic partnership to accelerate digital skilling, innovation and enterprise transformation across Uganda.

The collaboration, announced, aims to unite government leadership with private sector expertise to equip entrepreneurs, youth, small and medium enterprises, women-led enterprises and community organizations with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the technology-driven economy.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, officials from both institutions emphasized the importance of collaborative action in achieving Uganda’s digital ambitions. The Ministry will provide its nationwide network of Innovation Hubs, which will serve as centers for digital training, mentorship and community engagement. The partnership intends for these hubs to drive enterprise growth with advanced technologies, practical digital skills and tailored resources.

The dfcu Group, through the dfcu Foundation and dfcu Bank, will complement this platform by contributing equipment and capacity-building expertise. Dfcu Bank has pledged computers to support the National ICT Innovation Hub under the Ministry, giving young innovators and entrepreneurs access to reliable tools for development.

The dfcu Foundation, through its Business Acceleration Program, will partner with the Ministry to co-create digital and enterprise training that covers financial literacy, business formalization, governance and leadership. The joint goal is to bridge digital gaps, fuel enterprise growth and drive inclusive economic participation.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance underscored the national importance of the initiative. “Our Innovation Hubs were established to nurture Uganda’s digital talent and expand access to ICT services,” she said. “This partnership with the dfcu Foundation strengthens our ability to deliver on that mandate by expanding equipment, training, and real-world enterprise support. When the government and the private sector move together, we move the country forward.”

The Executive Director, representing the dfcu Foundation, highlighted the shared purpose. “The Ministry provides a robust national platform through its innovation hubs, while dfcu brings tools, enterprise support and deep experience with SMEs, farmers, women and youth. Together, we are shaping a future where every Ugandan can thrive in the digital economy.”

Helena Mayanja, head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at dfcu Bank, noted that the bank’s contribution reflects its role as a long-standing partner in the country’s progress.

“This initiative reaffirms dfcu Bank’s commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous, and sustainable Uganda,” Mayanja said. “By equipping the Ministry’s Innovation Hubs with computers, we are helping ensure that digital transformation reaches communities across the country, not only those in urban centers.”

The partnership is expected to expand digital skilling through the Ministry’s Innovation Hubs, improve access to enterprise development and extend digital literacy to grassroots entrepreneurs. It will also advance national efforts to prepare Ugandans for opportunities in e-commerce, digital finance and ICT-driven business.