Helpware Uganda had the honor of hosting Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, during her visit to their office. While there, Dr. Zawedde engaged in a significant dialogue with Helpware’s CEO, Robert Nash, and the Helpware Uganda team, centering on the government’s initiatives to bolster and expand Uganda’s Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector.
Dr. Zawedde underscored the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering a robust BPO industry in Uganda. She remarked, “We are channeling resources into infrastructure, skills development, and digital accessibility to attract international enterprises and position Uganda as a competitive outsourcing destination. With an expanding workforce and strategic investments, we seek to exponentially grow the sector, allowing Ugandans to work for global firms without relocating.”
The conversation also examined the evolution of BPO operations in Uganda, stressing the significance of effective communication in advancing the industry, particularly following the launch of the recent BPO Publicity Campaign. Helpware, a US-based enterprise, currently employs approximately 300 individuals in Uganda and is set to recruit an additional 400 staff members. The discussion further highlighted the necessity of regional branding to showcase Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and well-developed infrastructure as key strengths in attracting BPO investments.
Robert Nash shared his enthusiasm for the future, stating, “Helpware takes pride in being part of Uganda’s expanding digital landscape. We are committed to reinforcing our footprint here and working alongside the government to advance the BPO sector. Our mission is to generate more employment opportunities for Ugandans and establish Uganda as a premier BPO hub.”
Additionally, the dialogue emphasized the importance of cultivating a highly skilled workforce through partnerships with universities to equip students with essential competencies for BPO roles. A media campaign was also proposed to reshape global perceptions of Uganda and draw greater international attention to the sector.
The Ugandan government’s backing of the BPO industry is evident in the policy framework recently endorsed by the Cabinet, designed to create an enabling atmosphere for BPO investments. Dr. Zawedde highlighted that Uganda’s youthful, English-speaking populace, coupled with its favorable climatic conditions, provides a competitive edge in attracting multinational outsourcing firms.
Moreover, the government is enhancing internet penetration and establishing regional ICT innovation hubs at universities, paving the way for further expansion of the BPO sector. Dr. Zawedde also noted the government’s focus on fortifying cybersecurity and equipping young professionals with the requisite expertise for the job opportunities that will arise within the industry.
