Uganda to Host Inaugural Middle East & Africa Digital Transformation Summit in 2025
Kampala, 20th February 2025 – Uganda is set to host the first-ever Middle East & Africa Digital Transformation Summit (MEA-DTS) from June 25th to 27th, 2025, at the Kampala Serena Hotel. The announcement was made today by Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Cabinet Minister for ICT & National Guidance, during an official press launch at the Uganda Media Center.
Under the theme “Driving Digital Transformation for a Connected and Inclusive MEA Region”, the summit will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators from across Africa and the Middle East to explore how digital technology can accelerate economic growth and regional integration. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni will serve as the Chief Host.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Baryomunsi emphasized that MEA-DTS aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which prioritizes ICT as a key driver of economic transformation.
“This summit supports Uganda’s development agenda and the East African Community’s Vision 2050 by leveraging digital technologies for key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and oil & gas. It will also reinforce Africa and the Middle East’s contribution to global goals such as poverty reduction, quality education, and innovation,” he noted.
The event is being co-organized by the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, COMESA Business Council (CBC), and HiPipo—a renowned leader in ICT and financial inclusion across Africa.
HiPipo CEO, Innocent Kawooya, highlighted the summit’s significance, noting that it aligns with major global and regional development frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa Agenda 2063.
“For two decades, HiPipo has championed digital transformation through initiatives such as 40 Days 40 FinTechs, the Women in FinTech Initiative, and the Digital and Financial Inclusion Summit. We are proud to bring this important conversation to Uganda, focusing on key areas such as innovation, financial services, policy, and impact,” Kawooya stated.
The summit will provide a platform for over 60 countries to engage in discussions on digital inclusion, cross-border trade, and the future of ICT. Dr. Jonathan Pinifolo, COO of COMESA Business Council, stressed the importance of digital integration for economic growth.
“COMESA is Africa’s largest trading bloc, and leveraging digital technology will strengthen cross-border trade, e-commerce, and investment. This summit will create opportunities for governments and private sector players to drive digital-led economic transformation,” he remarked.
MEA-DTS 2025 will feature keynote sessions, panel discussions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities, bringing together top decision-makers, tech innovators, and young entrepreneurs, including students from over 70 universities in Africa and the Middle East.
A Game-Changer for Africa and the Middle East
With a focus on e-government services, digital finance, AI, cybersecurity, and emerging tech, the summit is expected to pave the way for new partnerships and policy frameworks that will accelerate digital transformation across both regions.