Expanding Digital Connectivity: National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) Update
By John Kusolo
In a world increasingly reliant on digital connectivity, Uganda is taking significant strides to enhance its communication infrastructure. The National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) project, initiated to improve the country’s broadband network, has made substantial progress. The latest updates showcase a mix of completed and planned developments, aiming to bridge the digital divide and foster inclusive growth.
The Backbone of Connectivity: Existing Network (🟢)
The existing NBI network, symbolized by green on the coverage map, represents the substantial groundwork already laid to boost connectivity across Uganda. This phase of the project has seen the successful deployment of high-speed internet infrastructure to various regions, facilitating improved access to digital services, educational resources, and economic opportunities. The expansion of this network has not only enhanced the efficiency of communication but also contributed to socio-economic development by providing a platform for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Expanding Horizons: Planned NBI Route (Phase 5) (🔴)
The next phase of the NBI project, marked in red on the coverage map, is set to further extend the reach of Uganda's digital infrastructure. Phase 5 of the NBI route will ensure that more regions, especially those previously underserved, gain access to the network. This planned expansion underscores the commitment to creating a more connected and inclusive society. By extending the network to these regions, the NBI aims to facilitate access to critical services such as e-health, e-education, and e-governance, thus fostering equitable growth and development.
Accelerating Digital Inclusion: Uganda Digital Acceleration Program (UDAP) (🟣)
Complementing the NBI's efforts, the Uganda Digital Acceleration Program (UDAP) is an ambitious initiative aimed at further enhancing the country’s digital reach. The routes planned under UDAP, depicted in purple on the map, are designed to accelerate digital inclusion and ensure that even the most remote areas are brought into the digital fold. This program is not just about extending physical infrastructure; it is about empowering communities through technology. By improving connectivity, UDAP aims to provide opportunities for digital literacy, enhance access to information, and create pathways for socio-economic development.
Impact and Future Prospects
The ongoing and planned developments of the NBI and UDAP are poised to transform Uganda’s digital landscape. The comprehensive coverage envisioned by these initiatives will significantly reduce the digital divide, providing equal opportunities for all citizens to participate in the digital economy. Improved connectivity is expected to spur innovations in various sectors, including agriculture, health, education, and commerce, thereby driving economic growth and improving the quality of life for many Ugandans.
Moreover, these developments align with global goals of sustainable development, emphasizing the role of technology in achieving socio-economic progress. As Uganda continues to build its digital infrastructure, it sets a precedent for other nations aiming to harness the power of connectivity for inclusive growth.
The National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) project, along with the Uganda Digital Acceleration Program (UDAP), represents a significant leap forward in Uganda’s quest for enhanced digital connectivity. The combination of existing networks, planned expansions, and strategic initiatives underlines a comprehensive approach to digital inclusion. As these projects unfold, they promise to bring transformative changes, making digital access a reality for all Ugandans and paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.
Ministry of Information Communications Technology & National Guidance through the National Information Technology Authority of Uganda (NITA-U) has implemented the National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure and e-Government Infrastructure Project (NBI/EGI).
It’s major aims are to connect all major towns within the country onto an Optical Fibre Cable based Network and to connect Ministries and Government Departments onto the e-Government Network.
The Project has been completed and consists of the following:
EGI equipment (Video conferencing and VOIP) rolled out and commissioned in Government Ministries and Departments
Built the NBI Data centre infrastructure with government applications (UMCS and Email) at Statistics house
Laying of over 12,000 Km of Optical Fibre Cable across the country to build the National Data Transmission Backbone;
Connection of NBI to the borders of Southern Sudan (Elegu) and Kenya (Malaba and Busia) thereby linking the country to other regional backbone infrastructure;
Expansion of the Government Metropolitan Area Network into a Wide Area Network covering the 22 towns of Kampala, Entebbe, Bombo, Mukono, Jinja, Busia, Tororo, Malaba, Kumi, Mbale, Soroti, Lira, Gulu, Masindi, Nakasongola, Luwero, Mbarara, Kasese, Fort Portal and Kyenjojo.
Extension of connectivity been Kampala-Masaka, Masaka-Mutukula, Mbarara-Kabale Kabale-Katuna and Kyenjojo-Hoima have been completed
A state of the art Network Operations Centre (NOC) has been built to monitor and administer the entire NBI Infrastructure.
Environmental and Monitoring Systems(EMS) were installed at all Transmission Sites across the Country
As a result, NITA-U is offering the following E-government Services over National Data Transmission Backbone Infrastructure (NBI)
Internet bandwidth
Leased Line Services
Hosting/Co-location in National data centre
Unified Messaging and Collaboration System (UMSC)
Government Web Portals
Government Citizens Interactions Centre (GCIC)
Voice over IP
Connecting to Integrated Financial Management Services
Video Conferencing for MDAs
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