Uganda is taking initial steps towards developing an artificial intelligence strategy, though the country has yet to issue a dedicated national AI policy. The government's efforts to harness emerging technologies are set against a backdrop of human rights concerns and debates over digital surveillance.
In 2019, Uganda established a national task force to advise on localiSing fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technologies. This initiative led to the publication of Uganda's "National 4IR Strategy" later that year, which aims to transform the country into a continental 4IR hub by 2040. The strategy focuses on key sectors such as agriculture, industry, services, and ICT.
Uganda's broader policy framework, including Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan III, emphasises science, technology, and innovation as drivers for development. The country has also been actively participating in regional AI initiatives through organisations like Smart Africa and the African Union.
On the regulatory front, Uganda enacted its first comprehensive Data Protection and Privacy Act in 2019, modelled after the EU's GDPR. The law establishes data subject rights and a Personal Data Protection Office, though concerns remain about the office's independence.
The national biometric ID programme, mandatory for accessing many public services, has faced criticism for potentially excluding millions of citizens. A lawsuit filed in 2022 alleges the system violates rights to healthcare and social security.
Mass surveillance has become a contentious issue, with the government deploying extensive CCTV camera networks equipped with facial recognition capabilities. Reports suggest these systems have been used to monitor and arrest opposition supporters, raising serious privacy concerns. Additionally, plans to install GPS trackers on all vehicles in the country have sparked legal challenges over privacy implications.
These technological developments are taking place against a backdrop of broader human rights concerns. Freedom House rates Uganda as "Not Free," citing harassment of civil society, media restrictions, and concerns over judicial independence. The country's use of internet shutdowns and social media blocks during elections has also drawn international criticism.
On the international stage, Uganda has shown some willingness to engage with global AI governance efforts. As a UNESCO member, Uganda endorsed the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI in 2021. The country also participates in African Union initiatives on AI policy development and supported a joint African Group statement calling for international discussions on autonomous weapons systems.
This country report is our interpretation and summary of the "CAIDP Artificial Intelligence & Democratic Values Index 2023". The full report can be found here - https://www.caidp.org/reports/aidv-2023/