KAMPALA, UGANDA — The Ugandan Cabinet has approved the National Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Policy, aiming to create more than 100,000 jobs and position Uganda as a leading outsourcing hub in Africa.
The new policy seeks to tackle the high unemployment rate among Ugandan youth aged 18 to 35, over 70% of whom struggle to find meaningful work despite having the necessary skills and education.
By following the successful examples of countries like India and the Philippines, Uganda hopes to provide new job opportunities and boost economic growth.
Utilizing Uganda’s digital potential
Developed by the National BPO Council under the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the policy leverages Uganda’s strengths: a young, educated, and English-speaking workforce; competitive labor costs; and expanding ICT infrastructure. Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, called the policy a “watershed moment” for the country.
“By harnessing our digital landscape, we are poised to attract international investments, foster local innovation, and create thousands of jobs for our youth,” he said.
Professor William Bazeyo, Chairman of the National BPO Council, emphasized the policy’s transformative potential. “It provides a solid foundation for attracting international investment, fostering local entrepreneurship, and positioning Uganda as a global outsourcing powerhouse. We are excited about the vast opportunities ahead and the positive impact this will have on our economy and workforce.”
The policy outlines a clear plan to streamline processes, expand market access, and build modern infrastructure. It encourages collaboration between the government, private sector, and educational institutions to equip the younger generation with the skills needed in a digital economy.
Uganda’s growing digital presence, noted in reports like the World Bank’s Digital Economy for Africa, reinforces its potential in the BPO industry. With over 70% of youth proficient in digital tools, Uganda has a significant advantage in the outsourcing market.
