Public Access Centres in Uganda: The Past, Present and Future

Abstract

The paper is based on the findings of Public access study conducted in Uganda as part of the broader study in 24 countries. It summarizes the methodology of the research, bringing out key findings with success factors and recommendations. It describes the country overview detailing its geography, political and geographic divisions, and demographic factors providing conclusions on the effects of each on Public Access. It provides a broader shape of the Public Access venues and centres in the country before focusing on the three main venues that target disadvantaged societies. It strategically examines Public Access venues from three angles; access, capacity and environment, which formed the framework of the study. The venues assessed include; community libraries, public libraries and multipurpose Community telecentre. The paper provides key recommendations, strategic areas for investment and direction for future research. It also highlights perceptions and changing media landscape especially with the introduction of ICTs.