Universal access in Uganda
1
Abstract
Universal Access Policies for Telecommunications, Information and
Communication Technology in Uganda
This analysis of Uganda’s communications policy focuses on the conceptual
premises and strategic motivations underlying the principle of universal access.
Spotlighting universal access as a foundation principle for telecommunications as well as
information and communication technology (ICT) policymaking in Uganda provides a
coherent framework for describing, analyzing, and evaluating Uganda’s policy of
universal access to telecommunications and ICT. The current policies are motivated by
the assumption that access to telecommunications and ICT is crucial to the social and
economic activities that fuel the development process. The case of Uganda has
implications for the countries of sub-Saharan Africa. First, this paper draws attention to
the policy options available to similar developing countries in their efforts to build a
foundation for participation in the information society. Second, the framers of Uganda’s
communications policy appear to have been persuaded by the global thinking concerning
the roles of telecommunications and ICT in socioeconomic development.
Convention