Shetechtive Uganda blog

Protecting Refugee Data in Uganda’s Humanitarian Response: Why It Matters More Than Ever By Rebecca Nanono Uganda stands out globally as one of the most generous refugee-hosting nations. With over 1.5 million refugees, mostly from South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi, Uganda's open-door policy is often praised as progressive and inclusive. Yet, as digital systems increasingly underpin humanitarian operations, from biometric registration to digital cash transfers, new risks to refugee privacy and protection are emerging. One of the most pressing yet overlooked challenges is the protection of refugee data. Why Refugee Data Protection Matters Refugee data, such as biometric information, personal histories, health records, and legal status, is sensitive and can expose individuals to serious risks if mishandled. In contexts where people have fled persecution, conflict, or political oppression, even a small data leak can lead to severe consequences, includin...

In an era where digital technology is reshaping governance, its use is not always synonymous with democracy and freedom. While the internet, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data have empowered citizens, they have also been weaponized by authoritarian regimes to control populations, silence dissent, and manipulate information. This phenomenon, known as digital authoritarianism , refers to the use of technology by governments to reinforce their grip on power rather than to promote democratic values. Digital authoritarianism is a growing concern, as states deploy surveillance tools, internet censorship, and data-driven repression to maintain control. However, technology remains a double-edged sword ,while it enables autocratic rule, it also offers opportunities for resistance, transparency, and democratic resurgence. 1. Understanding Digital Authoritarianism At its core, digital authoritarianism involves the strategic use of digital tools by governments to monitor, restrict, a...

  In the 21st century, digital technologies and information and communication technologies (ICTs) have become indispensable tools in the advancement of democracy worldwide. From enhancing transparency and citizen engagement to safeguarding electoral integrity and countering misinformation, digital innovation continues to redefine governance. However, as technology reshapes democratic processes, it also introduces new challenges that require careful regulation and ethical implementation. 1. Digital Technology and Access to Information A well-informed society is the foundation of a thriving democracy. The internet has revolutionized access to information, enabling citizens to educate themselves about political developments, government policies, and their rights. Open data platforms, government websites, and digital news outlets provide real-time updates on national and global events, ensuring that information is no longer controlled by a few select entities. Social media has al...

  Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century, with the power to reshape industries, economies, and societies. As AI continues to evolve, many believe that the future of this technology will not only be defined by the traditional global tech giants but also by emerging players from regions across the world. Among them, Africa stands out as a continent full of untapped potential, offering both unique opportunities and challenges when it comes to AI development and adoption. In this blog post, we will explore the ways in which Africa can actively contribute to the AI revolution, harnessing its strengths, overcoming its challenges, and becoming a key player in the AI ecosystem.   1. Leveraging Africa’s Rich Data Resources One of the most important elements of AI development is data. AI systems rely on vast amounts of data to train models, refine algorithms, and improve decision-making processes. Africa, with its rich div...

The rapid evolution of digital technologies has transformed the way we communicate, access information, and participate in society. However, this digital revolution has also brought significant challenges, including concerns over privacy, online safety, digital inequality, and the role of big tech companies in governance. To address these challenges and create a more inclusive and fair digital future, the United Nations has proposed the Global Digital Compact (GDC) —a framework aimed at setting global principles for digital cooperation and governance. What is the Global Digital Compact? The Global Digital Compact is an initiative proposed by the United Nations to establish a set of global principles to guide the use of digital technologies. It is expected to be a core part of the Summit of the Future in 2024 , bringing together governments, private sector actors, civil society, and other stakeholders to build a more open, safe, and human-centered digital space . The Compact seeks...

In the world of technology, the terms "open source" and "local" often appear in the same sentence, sparking a mix of curiosity and confusion. But let’s set the record straight: open source is not local source . While both concepts promote collaboration and accessibility, their scope and impact are worlds apart. In this blog, we’ll explore what open source truly means, how it transcends local boundaries, and why its global nature is a game-changer for tech innovation. What Does Open Source Really Mean? Open source refers to software with source code that anyone can inspect, modify, and enhance. The key here is openness —the idea that innovation thrives when ideas and solutions are shared freely. Some of the most successful tech projects, like Linux and Kubernetes, are open source, driven by global communities of developers contributing from every corner of the world. Why Open Source Is Not Local Source Global Collaboration Unlike local source pro...