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This move is part of a broader government rationalization policy intended to streamline operations within the Ministry of ICT.
The deliberation followed a detailed report from Tonny Ayoo, the chairperson of the ICT Committee, urging a reevaluation of the decision to disband NITA-U.
Ayoo highlighted NITA-U's instrumental role in steering the country's digital transformation efforts, underscoring its efficiency in managing resources and generating revenue without exerting financial strain on the national budget. “It has neither incurred high administrative costs nor drained the national treasury,” Ayoo affirmed.
Further emphasizing the agency's value, the report outlined NITA-U's achievements in enhancing governmental cost savings and operational efficiencies.
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Notable accomplishments include the reduction of internet bandwidth costs, resulting in savings of approximately Shs49bn for the government. Additionally, the establishment of the National Data Centre and Disaster Recovery sites was commended for saving up to US$92m by minimizing costs associated with duplicated efforts and for bolstering the resilience of critical government applications. These initiatives have supported 287 crucial applications across over 100 government institutions.
Jane Pacuto, representing Pakwach District, echoed Ayoo’s sentiments, pointing to NITA-U’s significant role in boosting non-tax revenue mobilization without burdening the national treasury.
Conversely, Abdul Kantutu of Bugweri County, called for a more thorough justification for the proposed dissolution, suggesting that a decision of such magnitude requires robust backing through both qualitative and quantitative analyses.
In a decisive move, the House voted against the amendment bill, thereby preserving NITA-U's existence and affirming its critical contribution to Uganda's ICT landscape.
This decision marks a key moment in Uganda's digital policy, recognizing the importance of maintaining robust institutions that spearhead technological progress and efficiency within the public sector.
This content was created with the help of an AI model and verified by the writer.