Uganda is set to take a major step in strengthening its digital infrastructure with the launch of the National IP Peering Exchange (NIPX), a new internet exchange platform aimed at improving connectivity and reducing costs.
The initiative, led by the National Information Technology Authority Uganda (NITA-U) in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, will be officially launched on April 17 at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
The NIPX will serve as Uganda’s first neutral and open Internet Exchange Point, allowing Internet Service Providers, content platforms, government networks, and other digital players to exchange local internet traffic within the country instead of routing it through international networks.
This shift is expected to significantly improve performance and efficiency across Uganda’s internet ecosystem.
Officials say the new platform will reduce reliance on expensive international bandwidth, leading to lower operational costs for service providers. It will also improve internet speeds by reducing latency, while strengthening network resilience in the event of global connectivity disruptions.
Richard Obita, Director of Technical Services at NITA-U, said the impact of the exchange will be felt directly by everyday users.
“Instead of routing local traffic through expensive international carriers, networks can now interconnect directly within Uganda. This delivers faster user experience, reduced costs, and greater reliability,” he said. “For the ordinary Ugandan, this means smoother video calls, faster access to e-government services, improved online learning, and eventually more affordable data.”
The launch of NIPX is part of Uganda’s broader Digital Uganda Strategy and Vision 2040, which aims to position the country as a competitive digital economy while enhancing digital sovereignty and service delivery.
Industry stakeholders have also welcomed the move. Godfrey Sserwamukoko, Chairman of the Internet Service Providers Association of Uganda, said the exchange will create new efficiencies across the sector.
“The NIPX provides a neutral and open platform that can optimise local traffic exchange and reduce costs. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to maximise participation and deliver faster and more affordable internet services,” he said.
With internet usage continuing to grow across Uganda, the introduction of NIPX is expected to play a key role in supporting the country’s digital transformation and improving access to reliable, high-speed connectivity.
