Uganda launches BPO policy, targets 150,000 jobs by 2030
KAMPALA, UGANDA — Uganda’s Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has officially launched the country’s new business process outsourcing (BPO) policy. The plan aims to create 150,000 jobs by 2030 and position Uganda as a leading outsourcing hub in Africa.
The policy was presented on Monday, February 24, 2025, as part of Uganda’s strategy to enter the global BPO market, which is valued at over $250 billion and is expected to exceed $500 billion in the next five years. It also comes months after it was approved by the Ugandan Cabinet.
Enhancing Uganda’s outsourcing capabilities
Uganda’s BPO market is reportedly valued at $3 million, although Statista estimates it could reach $97.82 million this year. Government officials anticipate significant expansion by developing an ecosystem that provides affordable internet access and devices. The policy is specifically aimed at young Ugandans, with the goal of leveraging their skills for international business opportunities.
Chris Baryomunsi, Minister for ICT and National Guidance, described the concept at the launch: “BPO allows companies to hire someone in Uganda to do tasks for their business abroad, like having a local auditor work for a firm in Canada.”
“This policy is designed to develop Uganda’s BPO sector and create job opportunities for young people. We want to make Uganda a top outsourcing destination in Africa by using the talent of our workforce.”
Today, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. @CHRISBARYOMUNS1, alongside the Permanent Secretary @azawedde, officially launched the Uganda Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Policy and Publicity Campaign at Mestil Hotel, Kampala. This policy aims to guide BPO… pic.twitter.com/TcxBWp6md6
— Ministry of ICT&NG (@MoICT_Ug) February 20, 2025
Infrastructure and visibility challenges for Uganda BPOs
The success of Uganda’s BPO goals depends on improving the country’s digital infrastructure. Permanent Secretary Aminah Zawedde emphasized this critical requirement at the policy launch.
“We are working on improving digital infrastructure, which is essential for the BPO sector’s growth,” she stated. “We need more data centers, and we are calling on private companies to help us achieve this.”
Rebecca Isabella Kiconco from the BPO Council highlighted the marketing challenges facing Uganda’s outsourcing industry.
“We need to be visible. Uganda has what it takes to compete globally, but people don’t know about us. We have to promote ourselves to get noticed,” she urged.
This initiative is in line with African Union forecasts that predict 60 percent of the marketplace will transition to digital by 2030. Uganda’s plan involves building partnerships between government agencies, private businesses, and educational institutions to develop skills in data analysis, customer service, and information technology, all of which are vital for a successful BPO sector.
