Africa-Press – Uganda. COVID-19 | TECHNOLOGY |Government is ecstatic that despite the ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic, it encouraged information, communication technology (ICT) innovation.Minister of Information, National Guidance & ICT Judith Nabakooba Thursday, stressed that the adage ‘every cloud has a silver lining’ rings true.Addressing the press at the ministry office in the capital Kampala, Nabakooba noted that the pandemic nudged the populace to make constructive use of ICT.She cited growth in areas of financial technology, medical technology, and education science, among others.”Throughout 2020, amazing advances have been made across several sectors. For example, in ICT, the service delivery sector made tremendous shifts by consolidating the Internet led approach to work,” said Nabakooba.”Several online companies emerged to provide solutions in-home deliveries, farming, transport, communication, restaurant services etc.”She expressed optimism that 2021 will herald an accelerated growth and consolidation of Uganda’s ‘Internet of Things’.The minister cited the commendable strides by local scientists who are working with urgency to make a COVID-19 vaccine.She asked the public to shun all forms of hate speech based on religion, tribe, and politics, saying it is pivotal for the country to promote togetherness.Tribute to health workersNabakooba emphasised the cruciality of health workers, saying they have cushioned the country from despair by working long hours and taking risks during the pandemic.”A lot of these health workers are quarantined at their places of work attending to patients in Intensive Care Units. As we go into 2021, let us all be grateful to our medicalWorkers,” Nabakooba emphasised.”We can make it easier for our medical workers if we follow the guidance being given. Let us ensure that we wear our face masks all the time, carry forward the practice of washing hands with soap all the time, avoid crowding while ensuring that social distancing as advised by the health workers.”Museveni a trusted steward during crisisShe paid tribute to President Yoweri Museveni, saying he has exhibited exemplary leadership during the pandemic.The Mityana Woman MP, noted that Museveni’s stewardship, guidance and reassurance, is testament that he is a safe pair of hands for the country.”All throughout 2020, the President has been exceptional in his leadership against the COVID-19 pandemic. Using his good communication skills, the President regularlyaddressed the country, calming our nerves and fears,” Nabakooba noted.”You will remember how the President drew international attention when he shared private fitness moments from his home. During the lockdown, the President shared a video of him doing pushups in one of his private rooms.”
