Consumers and suppliers of online services in Uganda now have a one-stop center through which they can report issues such as overpricing, hidden fees, or tech solutions and services that do not meet standards to the information technology regulator, NITA-U. The portal, launched in the presence of the State Minister for Information Technology and Communication, Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, aims to ensure that firms providing e-commerce services adhere to consumer rights and enhance transparency.
Empowering Digital Consumers
The portal serves as a centralized platform where digital consumers can lodge complaints and seek redress, offering a new level of protection in Uganda’s rapidly expanding digital marketplace. This move is seen as critical in promoting fair business practices and building trust in online platforms.
Role of the Protection Portal
The platform allows users to submit reports about fraudulent or substandard digital services, ranging from overpricing to non-functional apps or poor customer support. It also enables service providers to respond directly and resolve issues efficiently under NITA-U oversight.
Government Commitment to Online Safety
Speaking at the launch, Minister Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo emphasized the government’s dedication to protecting consumers in the digital space. “This portal is a critical tool in ensuring transparency, accountability, and consumer rights in the digital economy,” she said.
Ensuring E-Commerce Standards
The portal complements existing legal frameworks that guide data protection, cybersecurity, and digital trade. It is expected to improve the enforcement of standards and regulations, especially among smaller digital service providers.
The Road Ahead
With more Ugandans engaging in online transactions, the portal is a timely tool to uphold consumer protection in a fast-changing digital landscape. NITA-U encourages both consumers and providers to utilize the platform for fairer, safer e-commerce interactions
