By Lilian Ntege
Bwera Town, located in Uganda’s Kasese District, has become the latest frontier in the country’s pursuit for digital inclusion, following the official launch of free public Wi-Fi on Sunday, July 13th, 2025.
The milestone initiative, spearheaded by the Government of Uganda through the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), is part of the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project (UDAP-GovNet), aimed at expanding affordable internet access to underserved communities and transforming public service delivery.
“Access to the internet is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity,” remarked Godfrey Kabyanga, Uganda’s State Minister for ICT, who presided over the launch.
“This initiative is not just about giving people internet; it’s about giving them power—the power to learn, trade, and grow.”
Bwera is one of the first pilot sites selected following a recent NITA-U study on public Wi-Fi connectivity, as part of the intervention, secure, high-speed broadband access points have been strategically installed along Mpondwe Road, set to benefit citizens, schools, health centres, and local government offices.
The minister, however, urged responsible usage of digital services to ensure the platform serves its intended purpose.
“We are giving you a tool for empowerment, not a weapon for abuse. Let’s use it productively to build our communities,” Kabyanga cautioned.
Hatwib Mugasa, Executive Director of NITA-U, emphasized that Bwera Town is only the beginning of a broader national push toward digital transformation.
“Our goal is to ensure that no community is left behind in Uganda’s digital journey,” he said. Mugasa confirmed that more Wi-Fi sites would soon be established in Mpondwe and surrounding areas to enhance coverage and accessibility.
The Uganda Digital Acceleration Project, implemented in collaboration with the World Bank, seeks to improve the efficiency, coverage, and use of digital government services, particularly in underserved regions.
“The launch of public Wi-Fi in Bwera demonstrates our firm commitment to building a digitally inclusive Uganda,” Mugasa added. “This is the foundation for innovation, efficiency, and service delivery across sectors.”
For Bwera’s residents, the arrival of free internet access is expected to open doors to education, business, healthcare, and new opportunities.
As the country continues to invest in digital infrastructure, Bwera Town has become a light house of what is possible when technology is harnessed for public good.