Apac District has made significant strides in improving its digital infrastructure and community services by utilizing the Rural Community Broadband Network (RCBN). This network has been instrumental in enhancing the district’s capacity to implement various government programs, most notably the Parish Development Model (PDM).

PDM is a government initiative aimed at improving household incomes and overall community well-being by providing funds directly to the most vulnerable members of the society.

Walter Okello, the district’s IT Officer, enlightened that the RCBN has played a crucial role in speeding up the enrollment process for community members into the PDM. “By leveraging this broadband network, the district can now efficiently collect and manage data, ensuring that eligible participants are identified and registered much more quickly than before”, Okello said.

This use of technology has reduced the time and resources required for manual data collection and processing, allowing the district to serve its community more effectively according to Okello.

Beyond the PDM enrollment, the introduction of the network has also transformed other aspects of the district’s operations. Okello pointed out that many online activities, which previously required significant amounts of data and often had to be conducted outside the district, can now be handled internally. For instance, printing pay slips, conducting Zoom meetings, and accessing online government services are now done within the district offices. This shift has not only saved the district money on data expenses but also increased productivity by minimizing the need for staff to travel or rely on slower, less reliable internet connections.

These advancements underscore the broader impact of the RCBN on Apac District. By improving connectivity, the district has enhanced its ability to deliver services more efficiently, engage in real-time communication with stakeholders, and manage its resources more effectively.

The successful integration of this network within the community demonstrates the potential of digital infrastructure to drive local development and improve public administration

The Rural Community Broadband Network was established in Apac district in 2023 by the government of Uganda through Makerere University Research and innovations fund, It has 12 network sites including, Apac District Headquarters, Bed-Igen Women’s Group in Awiri, Apac Secondary School, Atopi Primary School, Maruzi Seed Secondary School, Apac Technical School, St. Albert Technical Institute, Apac Main Hospital, Atopi Market, KIC Office, and Nicho Poto Studio.