Telco, Airtel Uganda, together with Huawei Technologies, have joined hands to extend the benefits of internet connectivity to teachers, health workers, social workers and local leaders in Kanungu District by connecting them with 200 Smartphones. The initiative aims to empower these vital community members with internet connectivity and in the process transform the way they serve and impact their communities.
The smartphones distributed to teachers, health workers, social workers and local leaders shall be loaded with 5 GB of Airtel data every month for three months. This allocation aims to harness the life-changing power of affordable and seamless connectivity, enabling educators to access resources, healthcare providers to provide better services, and local leaders to coordinate community projects more efficiently.
Speaking at an event to commission the initiative on Monday 16th October, Dennis Kakonge, the Airtel Uganda Legal and Regulatory Director, emphasised the transformative power of the internet when used for productive activities.
“In today’s fast-paced world, access to information and seamless communication is vital for personal and community development. Airtel Uganda understands the transformative potential of smartphones, which is why we are proud to be at the forefront of providing affordable services,” he said.
Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, thanked the partners for this initiative and urged them to extend this to other hard-to-reach areas across the country.
“A smartphone is a tool of change. As the government, we shall continue to explore partnerships that will accelerate the connectivity of everyone. We are also exploring avenues for reducing tax rates on devices so that we can achieve this faster, as envisaged in the National Development Plan III,” Dr. Chris Baryomunsi told stakeholders at the event.
Airtel Uganda expressed gratitude to Huawei, its partner in this venture, for their unwavering support in making this initiative a reality.
Mr. Kakonge urged the beneficiaries to use these devices responsibly and drive positive change in their lives and communities.