MTN Uganda Opens ICT Hub for Refugees and Host Community in Palabek
The facility, established in collaboration with HAF Uganda, is equipped with 12 computers and internet connectivity. It is intended to provide young people with access to digital learning, practical skills development, employment opportunities and entrepreneurship resources.
MTN Uganda, through the MTN Uganda Foundation Digital Access Programme, has handed over a new ICT Hub at Palabek Refugee Settlement in Lamwo District to expand access to digital resources for refugees and the surrounding host community.
The facility, established in collaboration with HAF Uganda, is equipped with 12 computers and internet connectivity. It is intended to provide young people with access to digital learning, practical skills development, employment opportunities and entrepreneurship resources.
Palabek is home to nearly 72,000 refugees and asylum seekers, making the new hub an effort to bring digital resources closer to a community where access has often been limited.
The initiative forms part of MTN Uganda Foundation’s wider digital inclusion programme. Since 2007, the foundation said it has supported 94 ICT centres across Uganda, particularly in underserved communities.
Users of the Palabek facility will also be able to access training through the MTN Skills Academy and MTN ACE, enabling them to develop additional digital and professional skills.
The handover involved Hopelink Action Foundation Uganda, the Office of the Prime Minister, UNHCR, Lamwo District Local Government, settlement leadership and members of the Palabek community.
MTN Uganda said the facility is intended to support greater participation in the digital economy by providing the community with tools and connectivity that can support learning, employment and entrepreneurship.
