Ugandan National Cybersecurity Strategy 2022-2026

Strategies and Action Plans

Author: Uganda's Ministry of ICT and National Guidance

The Ugandan National Cybersecurity Strategy 2022-2026 lays out a comprehensive framework to enhance cybersecurity in Uganda, with a focus on safeguarding critical infrastructure, fostering a trusted digital economy, and developing robust governance mechanisms.

Vision and mission

The vision for Uganda is to become a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. The mission is to create a cybersafe and protected Uganda by ensuring secure and resilient cyberspace that supports ICT adoption and innovation for socioeconomic stability and development.

Goals

  • Establish a safe and trusted digital economy.
  • Enhance threat preparedness and response.
  • Build a robust cybersecurity ecosystem.
  • Promote a cyber-skilled Uganda.
  • Strengthen Uganda as an active partner in international cybersecurity.
  • Provide an enabling governance framework.
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Strategic tasks

  • Safe and trusted digital economyL The strategy emphasises implementing public key infrastructure (PKI) and digital identity systems to secure e-services. Support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) includes the development of cybersecurity resources and guidelines. Encouragement of local cybersecurity solutions will ensure economic growth while maintaining digital trust.
  • Threat preparedness and responseL Uganda will enhance its ability to manage cyber risks by creating a central incident register and conducting regular risk assessments. The establishment of national and sector-specific computer security incident response teams (CSIRTs) will be a key focus, alongside developing incident response plans and organising cybersecurity drills.
  • Robust cybersecurity ecosystem: Protecting critical infrastructure involves regular risk assessments and implementing a cybersecurity baseline for operators of essential services. The government will encourage collaboration between public and private sectors while addressing risks related to supply chains.
  • Cyber-skilled Uganda: The government aims to embed cybersecurity in educational curricula from primary to tertiary levels, create professional training programs, and raise public awareness. Research and development will be promoted to enhance Uganda’s cybersecurity capabilities and drive innovation.
  • Active international collaboration: Uganda will strengthen bilateral and multilateral dialogues on cybersecurity, participate in international conventions, and collaborate with global cybersecurity organisations. These efforts aim to build capacity, share information, and promote responsible state behavior in cyberspace.
  • Enabling governance framework: A coordinated governance structure will be implemented to streamline cybersecurity efforts across government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders. Updated legislation will support modern cybersecurity practices, while fostering shared responsibility among all participants.

Implementation

The strategy is built on the principle of shared responsibility, requiring collaboration between government entities, private sector organisations, and citizens. Continuous risk assessments and mandatory incident reporting for critical infrastructure operators are central to its implementation. The government will also provide capacity-building programs for under-resourced sectors such as healthcare.