Expanding Uganda’s Tech Ecosystem Through International Collaboration
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has launched the third phase of its mentorship programme for ICT-enabled startups in Uganda, aiming to support entrepreneurs during a critical period known as the “Death Valley.” This stage is often where many new businesses face failure due to insufficient resources and market challenges. The initiative is part of the Uganda–Japan Connect programme, a collaborative effort designed to foster digital innovation, create employment opportunities, and enhance Uganda’s standing in the global tech landscape.
This programme aligns with Uganda’s National ICT Policy, which emphasizes the importance of digital innovation and entrepreneurship in driving socio-economic growth. Jun Shiomitsu, a member of the JICA taskforce and CEO of AVODA Institute of Entrepreneurship, highlighted that the programme targets startups at various stages of development, guiding them from concept to market expansion.
Key Outputs of the Programme
Shiomitsu outlined four main objectives of the initiative:
- Policy Support: Providing guidance on ICT development in Uganda.
- Human Resource Development: Building essential ICT skills among local entrepreneurs.
- Business Matching: Facilitating connections between Ugandan startups and Japanese and global companies.
- Mentorship: Offering expert guidance to help startups achieve sustainability and market growth.
Over the course of four years, the programme will run four batches of startups through distinct growth phases. The first batch supported pre-MVP startups, while the second focused on early-stage entrepreneurs. Now, the third batch is targeting post-MVP startups—those with prototypes and a focus on scaling up to generate at least $100,000 in annual revenue.
Addressing High Startup Mortality
Shiomitsu emphasized the importance of this stage, calling it the “Death Valley,” where 90% of startups fail. He noted that government and JICA support are crucial in helping these businesses overcome this challenge. Batch three will include experienced Ugandan and international mentors, as well as global venture capitalists, to provide strategic guidance and support.
Shirley Nakyejwe, a senior ICT officer at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, described the programme as a strategic effort to bridge the gap between research, innovation, and the market. She explained that the initiative allows entrepreneurs to connect with successful industry players and experts both within and outside Uganda.
Success Stories and Future Goals
Since its launch in 2023, the programme has already graduated two batches. Notable achievements include entrepreneurs showcasing their products in Dubai, securing customers, and attracting international partnerships. Nakyejwe expressed hope that the initiative would produce Uganda’s first “unicorn”—a startup valued at over $1 billion.
Nadia Nanteza, an innovator with LYFEX Africa and a participant in Batch 3, shared her expectations for the programme. She hopes to gain more mentorship and expand her professional network, emphasizing the value of the Uganda–Japan partnership in opening doors to the global stage.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the growth of Uganda’s ICT sector, which contributed 9% to GDP in 2023, challenges such as limited funding, skills gaps, and low market readiness have hindered startup success. Programmes like Uganda–Japan Connect aim to address these issues by providing technical training, business strategy support, and international exposure.
Through continued collaboration and targeted support, the initiative seeks to empower Ugandan entrepreneurs, foster innovation, and position the country as a key player in the global tech ecosystem.