Uganda's top IT association revamps for global impact
With strategic international partnerships and a renewed focus on sustainability, the Alliance for Trade in Information Technology and Services (ATIS) is set to drive the growth of Uganda’s IT sector. Its transformation is a benchmark for collaboration and innovation in emerging markets.
In 2024, Uganda’s leading IT trade association, ATIS, took a bold step to reshape its future. Faced with critical structural challenges, the organization partnered with the NTF V #FastTrackTech programme to revamp its governance and strengthen its work to put Uganda’s IT sector on the global map.
ATIS faced a common dilemma for trade associations in emerging markets: members didn’t always pay their fees, the alliance’s purpose wasn’t always clear, and its operations relied heavily on volunteers. Since its launch, ATIS has been committed to demonstrating Uganda’s IT services to the world. But these issues threatened its sustainability.
‘We were stretched thin. Without a permanent secretariat or clear governance structures, it was difficult to meet members’ expectations or deliver tangible results,’ said Grace Achire, Vice Chairperson of ATIS. ‘Members wanted more, but we couldn’t secure the resources to fulfil those needs effectively.’
The turning point came when ATIS partnered with the NTF V FastTrackTech project, a programme led by the International Trade Centre (ITC), to strengthen IT ecosystems in emerging economies. Recognising ATIS’ potential, NTF V hired an institutional strengthening expert, Daniel Baudry, General Delegate of France’s Digital League, which represents over 400 IT companies.
Baudry worked closely with ATIS board and members through focus groups, workshops, and consultations. He facilitated conversations, analysed operational gaps, and co-created solutions with ATIS’ leadership.
Through Baudry's guidance, ATIS made significant strides:
- Establishing a permanent secretariat: Hiring full-time, paid staff became a top priority, ensuring smoother operations and consistency.
- Adjusting membership fees: ATIS doubled fees to focus on committed members who value its mission, prioritising quality over quantity.
- Strengthening governance: The board was restructured, roles and responsibilities were clarified, and new committees were formed to address institutional development and member services.
‘It was a moment of reckoning,’ Achire said. ‘Members had to decide if they believed in ATIS enough to invest in its future.’
NTFV’s role and alignment with expansion goals
Over five years, NTF V has provided funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities to ATIS, helping the association secure business opportunities for its members and gain increased visibility within the IT sector.
‘FastTrackTech isn’t about quick fixes,’ said Achire. ‘It’s about equipping us with sustainable solutions that will benefit the entire IT sector in Uganda. They’ve helped us reimagine what ATIS can be.’
Under the programme, ATIS was introduced to Digital League in France. This partnership aims to encourage knowledge exchange and open doors for Ugandan IT companies to explore international markets.
‘Connecting ATIS with similar associations allows for shared learning and the exploration of new business opportunities,’ Baudry said. ‘The aim is to create long-term value and global connections.’
Early wins and future ambitions
While the changes are still being implemented, early results are promising. The new governance structure has brought credibility, and plans to hire an executive director are underway. ATIS is also focusing on securing at least 10 fully committed, paying members in the short term.
ATIS has zeroed in on several key service areas. These include creating an online platform to offer member services, organising an annual event to spotlight Uganda’s IT sector internationally, and introducing an anti-corruption charter. The association is also improving its communication to showcase member success stories and achievements, keeping them well-informed and actively engaged.
A model for regional growth
ATIS’ transformation is a compelling example for other trade associations in East Africa. By prioritizing sustainability, professionalizing operations, and encouraging international collaboration, ATIS is demonstrating how trade alliances can drive meaningful change.
‘ATIS is now better equipped to champion Uganda’s IT industry,’ Baudry said. ‘Its progress shows that even small organizations, with the right support and commitment, can create significant impact. It’s about having the courage to change and the vision to act.’
About the project
The Netherlands Trust Fund V (NTF) (July 2021 – June 2025) is based on a partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of The Netherlands and the International Trade Centre. The programme supports MSMEs in the digital technologies and agribusiness sectors. Its ambition is two-fold: to contribute to an inclusive and sustainable transformation of food systems, partially through digital solutions, and drive the internationalisation of tech start-ups and export of IT&BPO companies in selected Sub-Saharan African countries.
