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Digital Identity in Uganda: Key Findings and Areas for Improvement

Uganda, a country in East Africa, has made significant strides in digital identity, but there are still several challenges that need to be addressed. This article highlights key findings from a report on digital identity in Uganda, covering business registration, identity documentation, mobile landscape, and digital identity infrastructure.

Business Registration

In Uganda, registering a business involves collaboration among five national and local government agencies. Despite this complexity, 63% of businesses are formally registered at the start of their operation, which is lower than the Sub-Saharan African average (84%). One of the significant inhibitors to registration is access to a scanner for digitally sending documents.

Key Challenges:

  • Access to scanners for digital document submission
  • Complexity of business registration process

Identity Documentation

To register a business, applicants must have a National Identification Number (NIN), which has helped streamline business registration. However, women face challenges in obtaining identity documentation due to their socio-economic role being limited to the domestic sphere.

Key Findings:

  • Women’s access to identity documentation is hindered by their limited socio-economic roles
  • NIN has streamlined business registration

Mobile Landscape

Uganda is one of the largest mobile markets in East Africa, with over 18 million unique mobile subscribers. The mobile landscape is dominated by Airtel and MTN, with a moderate number of mobile subscriptions (70% of the population). However, there are disparities in mobile phone ownership between men (82%) and women (63%), particularly among rural women.

Key Statistics:

  • 18 million unique mobile subscribers
  • Mobile market dominated by Airtel and MTN
  • Disparities in mobile phone ownership between men and women

Digital Identity Infrastructure

The report highlights the importance of digital identity infrastructure, including the National Identification Registration Authority (NIRA) and the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).

Key Institutions:

  • NIRA: National Identification Registration Authority
  • URSB: Uganda Registration Services Bureau

Areas for Further Research

There are several areas that require further research to address the challenges in digital identity in Uganda. Some possible questions include:

  • What are the specific barriers to business registration in Uganda, and how can they be addressed?
  • How can women’s access to identity documentation be improved, particularly in rural areas?
  • What role can mobile technology play in promoting digital identity and financial inclusion in Uganda?

By addressing these challenges and exploring new opportunities, Uganda can further develop its digital identity infrastructure and promote economic growth and financial inclusion.