By Aggrey BabaThe Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Hon. Nyombi Thembo, has held a high-level meeting with His Royal Highness the Kyabazinga of Busoga, aimed at strengthening collaboration between cultural institutions and the ICT sector in advancing digital access across communities.The courtesy visit, held in the Kingdom’s seat in Bugembe on Wednesday, focused on how technology can be harnessed to empower youth and accelerate socio-economic transformation in Busoga and beyond.Thembo described the meeting as warm, constructive, and rooted in a shared vision of development anchored in culture and innovation.The UCC Executive Director, reportedly, emphasized that digital access is no longer a privilege for a few, but a basic necessity that must reach every corner of Uganda (especially underserved and rural areas). He noted that partnerships with traditional leaders are critical in achieving inclusive connectivity and fostering digital literacy among young people, whom he described as “the heartbeat of our future.”The UCC Boss commended the Kyabazinga for his openness to embracing modern solutions and his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote ICT education, innovation, and digital skilling within the Kingdom.“At UCC, we believe true progress happens when we link our cultural foundations with forward-looking technology. The Kyabazinga’s support in this regard is invaluable,” he noted.He added that UCC is actively working to bridge the digital divide through infrastructure investment, community ICT hubs, and programs that equip youth with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy.The Commission’s vision, he said, is one of collaboration, with institutions, leaders, and communities coming together to shape a connected, empowered Uganda.The meeting reaffirmed UCC’s commitment to building inclusive partnerships that prioritize people and preserve culture, while opening up new pathways for innovation and growth. Hon. Thembo expressed gratitude for the hospitality and shared wisdom during the engagement, reaffirming that digital transformation must be rooted in local leadership and guided by a mutual commitment to empowering communities.The visit comes at a time when UCC is intensifying efforts to expand broadband access and digital literacy across the country, especially in regions where young people face growing unemployment and limited access to digital tools. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).