Why choose a computer as tool to empower youths in Uganda?

Like 2 weeks ago I wrote about empowering a rural child in Uganda, in the article I focused on building affordable computer units as tools to be used in the process. This is why I think they are ultimately offering a competitive advantage.

1. Various opportunities.

12 years ago, the only thing I was able to do was to play soccer which soccer would not help me earn and help the people around me. After spending many years of learning how to use the computer, now am able to support myself with basic needs, as well as support my fellow youths through teaching them what I know of which a big part, I learned using computers. In fact right now am typing on this blog, using a computer, the blog itself is hosted on a certain computer somewhere.

Like me who is now a happy website designer, web application developer, junior mobile application developer many others are photographers, Bboys, artists, writers, bloggers, rappers such as Abramz the founder of Break Dance Project Uganda an organisation which uses breakdance, Hiphop, art & education for empowerment & positive social change and tech developers such as Solomon King a founder of Fundibots a social enterprise which uses Raspberry PI, to teach kids and youths about robotics have some sort of computer influence in their life.

2. Communication

Imagine a world where everyone was silent about their achievements, instructions towards their teams, important messages towards their families, friends and loved ones. In my opinion the world would be a mess. To avoid that, the computer is playing an integral role to support internet which transmits information in a snap of a finger. The computer also helps the deaf and the visually impaired to communicate. Without the computer human communication would be harder.

However, though computers are available, a big part of the world is missing out on this great opportunity to communicate with the rest of the world. I think it’s one of the greatest actions in human history to make computers accessible to the youths of Uganda and the rest of world.

3. Data collection, storage and analysis

Pilots need data, health service providers need data, radio presenters, sportsmen, farmers; name it all we all need data. The data we need should be sourced from various parts of the world, but according to statistics made by http://www.internetworldstats.com/stats1.htm  indicating 9.4% of Africa contribute to the overall World internet users.

So in my opinion, if 24 people, from different communities in Uganda, have access to computers, data sourcing is mostly like to double, if not triple.

4. Setup businesses

With the skills have developed over the years, I have been able to found 2 businesses including Gagawala Graphics Ltd which is using computers and digital technology to deliver affordable quality graphics design such as logos, brochures, calendars, memorable ceremony cards, company profiles as well as print them and design websites to boost the market for local businesses and organisation initiatives online. We are serving over 100 customers every year and we have built a team of 8, skilled youths.

I also run a social enterprise “You Inspire You” using computers, digital technology,. discussions and writing to empower people and uplift communities. With You Inspire You, we have reached over 400 youths and adults in a period of a year, teaching them how to use computers, about personal development, starting and run sustainable businesses.

As an individual the benefits and the things I have been able to involve are many but it’s because of the computer skills I have. I see incredible business starting in Africa, or existing businesses get boosted if we ease computer accessibility by youths.