The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, has urged Local Government Communication Officers to use digital platforms to effectively engage Uganda’s predominantly young, tech-savvy population.
Speaking at a meeting held on 24th October, 2025, at Imperial Royale Hotel, Dr. Zawedde highlighted that Uganda’s population has an average age of 16 years, with millions actively using platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, X, and YouTube.
“To communicate effectively, government officers must meet citizens where they are by adopting modern, interactive, and relatable communication channels,” the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance said.
She noted that with over 44 million mobile subscriptions and more than 10 million smartphone users, digital platforms are vital for disseminating government messages and promoting programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Dr. Zawedde further highlighted the importance of fact-based communication to counter misinformation, while showcasing local success stories that demonstrate government impact at the grassroots level.
Echoing her remarks, Ben Kumumanya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, emphasized the central role of communication in service delivery.
“Communication should take a central role in issues of service delivery,” he stated, urging officers to enhance their presence and contribute more effectively to national development.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, highlighted significant developments, such as improvements in educational facilities, health centers, road infrastructure, and the establishment of new administrative blocks in Kalaki and Terego districts, emphasizing that these successes should be communicated effectively to the public.
The meeting aimed to develop a roadmap and action plan for how Local Government Communication Officers can optimize communication for national development.
Kumumanya also noted that communication officers are among 15 key positions that local governments should prioritize for recruitment, alongside roles such as Heads of Department, Internal Audit, and Procurement.
He added that budgeting for communication initiatives will be discussed at the next meeting of Local Government Accounting Officers.
Both leaders emphasized that effective communication is not just a tool for information sharing, but a strategic enabler of development, ensuring that government programs reach citizens, counter misinformation, and build public trust.
By embracing digital platforms and prioritizing inclusive, fact-based communication, Local Government Communication Officers can play a central role in driving national development and strengthening the connection between government and the people.
