MUBS to improve the livelihoods of unserved and underserved communities through the E-Booster initiative

KAMPALA, December 13, 2024 – Makerere University Business School [ MUBS ] has launched the second phase of its E-Booster initiative, aimed at improving the livelihoods of unserved and underserved communities in Uganda.

Coordinated by MUBS in partnership with the Uganda Communications Commission [UCC], the initiative is guided by the theme “Serving the Unserved and Underserved Sectors.” E-Booster seeks to promote the adoption of technology by SMEs and communities to address challenges such as limited access to funding, technical expertise, and reliable internet and electricity.

The programme is designed to foster innovation, digital inclusion, and entrepreneurship, aligning with Uganda’s Digital Vision and National Development Plan.

At the launch event, MUBS Principal, Prof. Moses Muhwezi, praised the UCC for its partnership in enhancing digital innovation to reach far-flung communities across Uganda. He emphasised that MUBS is a hub of innovation, where researchers, entrepreneurs, professionals, and innovators should work together to find practical solutions to pressing problems.

“Innovations that do not address business needs cannot succeed, as they must be cost-effective and marketable,” Prof. Muhwezi said. He also raised concerns about research conducted on the Kiteezi landfill, where reports were submitted but no action was taken, resulting in tragic loss of life. He urged that the knowledge generated through research and innovation be applied to save communities.

He further called on educated individuals in public offices to utilise taxpayer funds effectively to support the unserved and underserved populations in the fight against poverty. “The educated should transform society, not misuse taxpayers’ money through corruption and embezzlement,” he added.

The first phase of the E-Boost Camp achieved notable success, attracting 53 applicants with diverse ICT solutions across sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and assistive technologies for persons with disabilities [PWDs]. Key successes included Cinnamon Solutions’ digitalisation of 21 Village Savings and Loan Associations [VSLAs] for fishing communities, Feast Farm’s online farming platform supporting over 200 farmers, and Suzie Waters’ assistive technology for 600 visually impaired students. These projects showcased the programme’s ability to integrate ICT effectively into daily life.

The second phase of the initiative builds on these successes with a broader focus and a larger pool of applicants. Officials expect even more promising applications, expanding the scope to include more ICT-enabled solutions for underserved communities.

Engineer Christine Mugimba, Manager of Projects & Partnerships at UCC, spoke on behalf of Nyombi Tembo, emphasising that the launch of the second phase marks a significant milestone. She highlighted the alignment of the E-Booster programme with the UCC’s mandate to promote the development and use of ICT solutions.

“By fostering a culture of innovation and supporting the development of homegrown solutions, we aim to bridge the digital divide and position Uganda as a regional ICT hub,” Mugimba said. She praised the collaboration between UCC, led by Director James Beronda, and MUBS, under the leadership of Prof. Earnest Abaho, noting that such partnerships have been crucial to the programme’s success.

As the second phase expands its focus to encourage a wider range of applicants and scale impactful solutions, the selection process will remain rigorous and transparent to ensure the highest quality solutions.

“We are excited to see even more innovative solutions that will drive progress and make a tangible difference in the lives of Ugandans. This is not just about winning; it’s about creating a meaningful impact in the lives of underserved communities,” Mugimba added.

She reaffirmed UCC’s commitment to ensuring that ICT is accessible and impactful for all, bridging the gaps between served and underserved communities. “We remain committed to supporting initiatives that harness the power of ICT for national development. While we have made significant strides in bridging the digital divide, much work remains to be done. Programs like E-Booster are a critical part of our broader strategy to ensure that ICT is accessible, affordable, and impactful for all Ugandans,” Mugimba concluded.

“We shall ensure no one is left behind, and every Ugandan has the opportunity to benefit from technological advancements. Together, we can create a more inclusive, prosperous, and connected Uganda.”

The first phase of the E-Boost Camp introduced ICT empowerment initiatives such as Cinnamon Solutions’ digitalisation of 21 VSLAs across fishing communities on the shores of Lake Victoria, where thousands of people were trained in financial literacy and digital transformation. Through the #YimusaLevo campaign, Uganda’s fishing communities embraced saving using digital financial applications.

Infosec Technologies also launched a pro bono legal services app, providing access to justice for disadvantaged communities, particularly visually impaired persons, by linking them to lawyers offering free services in courts of law.

Feast Consultants International Limited developed the Feast Farms app, which surpassed its target of 250 users by registering 1,500 farmers and stakeholders.

These projects have had a tangible impact on sectors such as agriculture, education, and legal access, bringing meaningful benefits to communities.

Eng. Arnold Bareba Mujuni, Head of Technical Monitoring at UCC, remarked that one of the strategic pillars of the fund is leveraging partnerships to implement sustainable initiatives with greater social and economic impact.

“This milestone demonstrates our commitment to nurturing innovation and empowering entrepreneurs to shape the future of our communities, especially in unserved and underserved parts of the country,” Eng. Mujuni said.

The fund believes that enhanced collaboration between academia, industry, and government will foster a more vibrant digital ecosystem in Uganda, encouraging the emergence of local digital solutions, driving technological innovation, and creating an environment conducive to digital entrepreneurship, job creation, and wealth generation.

https://thecooperator.news/muk-don-urges-government-to-quickly-resolve-mubs-staff-salary-disparity/