Uganda’s Role in the AI-Driven Future

The national launch of the HDR was held at Kyambogo University in Kampala on 15 May 2025.

Now in its 35th year, the HDR remains a vital global tool for shaping discourse around development—focusing not just on economic growth, but on people's lives, choices, and capabilities.

Speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator Mr. Leonard Zulu, UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, underscored the Human Development Approach as one that prioritizes health, education, income, and dignity. She highlighted that “AI is a transformative force that can either deepen inequalities or accelerate progress, depending on the choices societies make”.

UNDP Uganda Chief, Strategy and Policy Unit, Dr. Thangavel Palanivel echoed this, calling for a bold shift from economic output to human-centered development.

Progress and Gaps in AI

Uganda has made commendable progress:

• Life expectancy has increased by over 20 years, from 47.6 to 68.3.
• Mean years of schooling have doubled.
• Human Development Index (HDI) rose by 70.2%, maintaining Medium Human Development status

Innovative local solutions were also celebrated:

• A student led project to develop a low-cost DC-powered baby incubator is currently under development
• Makerere University AI Lab’s are building inclusive datasets in local languages
• Otic Foundation aim to help create 1 million AI centric jobs and train 3 million Ugandans by 2030

Yet, challenges remain. Uganda’s HDI (0.582) is higher than the Sub-Saharan African average (0.568), but still lags behind the global average (0.756). Gender inequality, digital divides, and climate vulnerability continue to hinder inclusive development.

Minister for Science Technology and Innovation Monica Musenero declared: “We are witnessing the first industrial revolution that Uganda is actively part of, this is out revolution!”

Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, she emphasized the urgent need to transition from a traditional to a digital economy calling for local AI startups, digital infrastructure, and policies that fuel homegrown innovation.

With AI becoming mainstream, the report aligns with the UN’s Global Digital Compact, urging:

• Responsible AI governance
• Bridging digital divides
• Protecting human rights

Uganda must invest in digital literacy, inclusive policy, and skills development, especially for women and rural communities.

Call to action

“We must unite—government, academia, private sector, and civil society—around this vision,” concluded Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator. “Let us harness AI for good and create a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Uganda.”