The outgoing leadership of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has formally handed over office to the newly appointed minister, Justine Kasule Lumumba, with pledges of continuity, innovation and improved service delivery.
The handover ceremony was held at the ministry’s headquarters on Parliamentary Avenue in Kampala.
Former ICT minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, who has been appointed to the Health ministry, described his former colleagues as an excellent team that worked together to achieve the ministry’s goals.
He said teamwork among ministers and technical staff had enabled the ministry to deliver on its mandate effectively.
Baryomunsi also praised Lumumba, saying her extensive leadership experience would help take the ICT sector to greater heights.
“She is a capable leader with vast experience, and I am confident she will move the sector to another level,” he said.
The former State Minister for ICT (National Guidance), Godfrey Kabbyanga, thanked President Museveni for allowing him to serve in the ministry.
Kabbyanga said he was proud of the work accomplished during his tenure and expressed gratitude to the ministry’s staff for their support.
“I am happy that I served with integrity and that I am leaving the ministry with clean hands. I also appreciate all the staff of the Ministry of ICT who have been very supportive throughout my time here,” he said.
His replacement Alioni Yorke Odria, used his maiden speech to call for greater use of technology in fighting corruption.
He challenged the ministry’s technical teams to develop digital solutions that can help identify and address corruption in government institutions.
“I am here to continue the fight against corruption, and I thank the president for appointing me. Technology can play a major role in improving accountability and transparency,” Odria said.
Lumumba said the ministry has an important role to play in communicating Uganda’s image to the world, especially during public health emergencies.
She noted that disease outbreaks can affect international perceptions of the country and require effective communication from government agencies.
“We have a lot of work to do in communicating accurate information about Uganda to the world. Effective communication is important for maintaining confidence in the country,” Lumumba said.
She also urged technical officers within the ministry to provide professional advice on policies that can support government programmes and national development.
Lumumba encouraged Ugandans to embrace ICT as a tool for economic growth, innovation and social transformation.
She said technology remains a key driver of development and can help improve service delivery, create jobs and expand opportunities for citizens across the country.
