A delegation from the Tanzania Information and Communication Technologies Commission (ICTC) recently concluded a pivotal three-day benchmarking mission to the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U). Led by Eng. Sadath Kalolo, Director of Professional Services at ICTC, the visit aimed at deepening regional cooperation and knowledge exchange across critical domains: data governance, privacy, and cybersecurity. This initiative aligns with broader efforts by East African Community (EAC) ICT regulators to harmonize policies and build shared capacity, strengthening the region’s overall digital ecosystem.
The Tanzanian team undertook comprehensive tours of Uganda’s key digital infrastructure, including the National Data Center, the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), the Information Access Centre, and the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO). This practical exposure was specifically designed to observe how NITA-U is translating ICT policy into operational reality. According to Eng. Kalolo, the mission’s objective is to “adapt what works in Uganda to accelerate Tanzania’s digital transformation and deliver better, safer services to our citizens,” underscoring a commitment to practical, results-oriented policy integration.
Speaking at a press briefing held at NITA-U headquarters, Eng. Kalolo emphasized that “Collaboration and knowledge exchange are key to strengthening our regional digital ecosystem. By working together, we build a foundation for innovation and growth that benefits our communities and economies.” He specifically commended Uganda’s proactive approach to data protection and ICT regulation, stating a keen interest in learning how these successful strategies can be adapted for implementation in Tanzania. Caroline Mugisha, NITA-U’s Director for Regulation and Legal Services, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the knowledge exchange “marks a significant milestone in fostering a deeper collaboration” necessary to advance the EAC’s shared digital ambitions.
