The National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), alongside key partners, has launched Uganda's first Consumer Protection Portal to enhance consumer rights and accountability within the country's burgeoning digital sector.
Unveiled at the Consumers Protection Conference in Kampala, the platform offers Ugandans a secure, accessible way to address digital challenges, including fraud, counterfeit goods, and substandard services.
Dr. Hatwib Mugasa, NITA-U Executive Director, highlighted the portal's role in building public trust and promoting standardized practices in Uganda's IT sector. "The portal allows IT consumers to easily report issues such as counterfeiting and fraud," Mugasa noted. "Our goal is to promote standardisation, foster accountability, and cultivate trust in Uganda's digital sector."
As Uganda's digital landscape rapidly expands, issues like financial fraud and cybersecurity threats have become more prominent. The Consumer Protection Portal addresses these risks directly, offering Ugandans a trusted channel for reporting digital grievances.
In addition to simplifying the reporting process, the portal facilitates seamless data sharing, providing a fair mechanism for resolving disputes and enhancing IT governance. NITA-U envisions this platform reaching all regions of Uganda, establishing a resilient data infrastructure accessible nationwide.
The initiative has garnered strong support from government officials, including Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, Minister of State for ICT, who emphasised the importance of public-private collaboration in promoting transparency.
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"This portal reflects Uganda's commitment to effective governance and economic growth," Ssebugwawo said. "When government and private sector unite, we can uphold transparency and accountability, ensuring that Uganda's tech sector meets global standards."
Ssebugwawo also announced plans for joint media campaigns to educate citizens about the portal and encourage its use, reinforcing the government's commitment to consumer protection.
"Digital transformation is essential in today's world, where efficient government and private-sector services depend on meeting citizens' needs," she added.
Michael Niyitegeka, Executive Director of Refractory Academy, stressed that consumer protection in the digital age goes beyond infrastructure; it requires a well-informed public. He advocated for a regulatory framework that protects consumers and for digital literacy initiatives to empower Ugandans to make informed online choices.
"We need regulations because some consumers don't receive what they order. Educating citizens on how this works will add value and improve the portal's effectiveness," Niyitegeka said.
As the Consumer Protection Portal rolls out nationwide, it aims to hold digital service providers accountable, helping users demand higher standards.
This initiative is set to make Uganda's digital space safer and more transparent, fortifying the IT sector's foundation for a stronger digital economy.
