In today’s rapidly evolving digital age, the business community in Uganda has been urged to embrace the power of the internet as a tool for business growth and expanding their sales far beyond the country’s borders.
As the global economy continues to shift towards digital platforms, businesses that fail to adapt to the internet’s capabilities risk losing out on vast opportunities to increase revenue and expand their reach.
This call was made recently when Airtel Uganda commissioned five new network sites in Kabale Municipality, aimed at enhancing the internet connectivity and network service in the greater Kigezi region.
These new developments are expected to improve network coverage, call clarity, and internet speeds in the area, allowing businesses to stay connected, run operations efficiently, and engage with customers seamlessly, whether locally or internationally.
The expansion forms part of Airtel Uganda’s ongoing efforts to enhance mobile connectivity and provide seamless digital experiences for customers in the region.
These new network sites are strategically located in key areas, including Kyetobokeire, Kekuubo, Nyabushabi, and Rwakabara, all of which are critical to boosting the region’s commercial activities. With the improved network, Airtel hopes to contribute significantly to enhancing the economic activities in the area, particularly in sectors such as trade, education, healthcare, and finance.
According to Airtel Uganda’s Sales Director, Wongani Muthayi, the newly commissioned network sites are not just about improving connectivity but also about creating opportunities for regional trade and business growth. Muthayi emphasized that in today’s digital world, connectivity goes beyond being a mere service; it has become a gateway to new economic opportunities, education, healthcare, and financial inclusion. “Connectivity is more than just a service; it’s a gateway to regional trade, education, business growth, healthcare, and financial inclusion,” Muthayi stated during the commissioning event.
For businesses in Kabale Municipality, the improved network connectivity means that they can now leverage the internet to increase their reach, sell products beyond the local market, and improve their customer service experience. With the ability to access fast and reliable internet, traders and entrepreneurs can now interact with customers via social media platforms, online marketplaces, and e-commerce websites, thus tapping into new markets and broadening their sales horizons.
The internet has proven to be a powerful tool for businesses worldwide, providing them with opportunities to scale faster and more efficiently. However, many businesses in Uganda and other parts of Africa have yet to fully embrace the internet’s potential. The case in Kabale serves as a reminder of how critical it is for businesses to adapt to the digital transformation and leverage the tools and opportunities available online to stay competitive.
Kabale Municipality Deputy Mayor, Kedress Mutabazi, commended Airtel Uganda for the expansion of its network in the region, highlighting that it would significantly benefit local businesses. He noted that the development of reliable network infrastructure in the area would not only make communication more efficient but would also open doors for economic activities that could positively impact the livelihoods of many residents. Mutabazi expressed gratitude for the initiative, stressing that such investments were essential for the growth and sustainability of businesses, especially in more remote areas.
In addition to the enhanced network coverage, Airtel Uganda has also invested heavily in other infrastructure to support businesses in the region. The company operates 96 Airtel Money branches, along with 3,400 agents and two service centres in the area. These resources ensure that businesses and individuals in Kabale can access various financial services, including mobile money transactions, which have become a vital tool for business operations and financial inclusion in Uganda.
With the increased adoption of mobile money and digital financial services across Uganda, many businesses are able to offer their products and services online, receiving payments digitally, and conducting transactions with ease. This growing shift towards digital financial tools has also helped many Ugandan businesses reduce the risks associated with cash-based transactions, making business operations safer and more efficient.
Airtel Uganda’s commitment to supporting national development is clear through its continued investment in network infrastructure across the country. The company has been instrumental in bridging the digital divide, especially in underserved and rural areas, by providing access to affordable and reliable mobile and internet services.
Through these investments, Airtel Uganda is playing a significant role in helping local businesses and communities harness the benefits of digital connectivity to drive economic growth and improve living standards.
David Birungi, Airtel Uganda’s Public Relations Manager, also spoke at the commissioning event, emphasizing the company’s dedication to supporting economic transformation through reliable connectivity.
Birungi acknowledged the growing demand for improved network infrastructure in Uganda and expressed gratitude to the people of Kabale for their trust in Airtel Uganda’s services. He explained that the investment in Kabale is part of a broader strategy to enhance connectivity across Uganda, ensuring that every citizen and business, regardless of location, is empowered to participate in the digital revolution.
“We are grateful to the people of Kabale for their trust in Airtel Uganda. This investment is part of our broader strategy to enhance connectivity across Uganda, ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution,” Birungi said.
The increased focus on improving internet access and network infrastructure in Uganda is a testament to the country’s growing commitment to ensuring that businesses and individuals have access to the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. By improving connectivity in key areas, Airtel Uganda is not only enhancing communication but also creating new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and social development.
“For businesses in Kabale and other parts of Uganda, the message is clear: to remain competitive in the global marketplace, embracing internet use is no longer optional. It’s a necessity. The digital landscape is evolving quickly, and those who fail to adapt may find themselves left behind. With improved internet connectivity, the sky’s the limit for businesses that are ready to take advantage of the opportunities the internet provides,” Birungi added.