Oyam embraces digital inclusion through BOLT project

6 June 2025, 10:06 am

By Mike Okwang Ogule

Oyam District is set to become the next frontier of rural digital transformation following the launch of a new broadband connectivity initiative aimed at enhancing digital inclusion in underserved communities.

The project, titled “Enhancing Digital Inclusion in Northern Uganda, Oyam District: Piloting a Rural Broadband Connectivity Model,” was launched recently through a community inception and sensitization meeting held at Rainbow hotel in Oyam Town. The initiative is spearheaded by the Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) in partnership with netLabs!UG, and is funded by the Internet Society (ISOC) under the global BOLT Project.

The inception meeting was graced by the Oyam Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Sgt. Shilaku James, who welcomed the project with enthusiasm, pledging his full support.

“This initiative comes at the right time when digital access is no longer a luxury but a necessity. As government, we pledge to walk this journey with you,” he said.

Ms. Sandra Aceng, Executive Director of WOUGNET, emphasized that the BOLT project is not only about connectivity but also about empowering communities, especially women and girls, to participate meaningfully in the digital world.

“We see this as a transformative opportunity for everyone in Oyam, but most importantly, we are committed to closing the digital gender gap by giving women the tools and skills to thrive in today’s tech-driven society,” she stated.

Alexander Muhangi, a graduate researcher with netLabs!UG, linked the success of digital initiatives to the readiness of local communities to embrace change, citing the remarkable impact of the Rural Community Broadband Network (RCBN) in Apac District, he encouraged the people of Oyam to rally behind the project.

“Apac’s digital success story was made possible by community cooperation. The same spirit is needed here in Oyam. This project’s success depends on how much you’re willing to own it,” he said.

As part of the infrastructure setup, the project’s main network server will be hosted at Shine FM in Oyam, with technical aspects managed by netLabs!UG. In the coming months, activities will include a need assessment to identify digital skill gaps and community priorities, technical site surveys to select the most suitable broadband locations and the establishment of Digital Empowerment Centres that will provide training in digital literacy and inclusion among others.

The BOLT project’s broader goals align with national and global efforts to connect the unconnected, advance the use of open internet technologies, and promote equitable digital participation.

With Oyam now in the spotlight, stakeholders have called on local leaders, youth, women’s groups, schools, and grassroots organizations to actively support the initiative and help turn the district into a model of rural digital innovation in Uganda.