Uganda Unveils National AI Research Cloud to Drive Innovation

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Christine Miller
Christine Miller
2 Min.

Uganda Unveils National AI Research Cloud to Drive Innovation

Uganda has launched a new platform to boost artificial intelligence research and innovation. The National AI Research Cloud was officially unveiled on March 13, 2026, by Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. The initiative aims to provide high-performance computing and secure data storage for researchers across the country.

The cloud platform was commissioned at Makerere University in partnership with the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU). It includes GPU-powered servers and dedicated storage, allowing researchers to train and test AI models more efficiently. Initially, the system will support participants of the AI Innovation Academy, a programme led by Pathogen Economy Labs (PEL), Marconi Lab, and the Mak AI Centre, with backing from the presidential Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat.

Over time, the infrastructure is set to expand beyond the academy. Government agencies, universities, startups, and other innovators will gain access, reducing the cost and technical barriers of AI development. The platform also ensures secure data management, enabling researchers to store, reuse, and validate datasets for ongoing projects. The project aligns with Uganda's broader strategy to build local AI expertise. By lowering infrastructure hurdles, the cloud aims to turn academic research into practical applications, strengthening the country's role in the global AI sector.

The National AI Research Cloud will serve as a key resource for Uganda's growing AI community. It provides the computing power and storage needed to scale innovations from labs into real-world solutions. The initiative marks a step toward advancing technological progress and economic growth in the region.