The Uganda Communications Commission, has recognized Airtel Uganda for their contribution to ICT development at the sixth edition of the annual ACIA Awards.
Airtel Uganda won the “ICT for Development” award for their “Tugabane” product; an enhanced internet product which allows an internet customer to subscribe to a data bundle on one mobile line while adding up to 4 other mobile numbers to surf from the same bundle. This data sharing option has close to no restrictions- allowing customers to surf from any geographical location using any internet enabled device.
The award was presented to representatives from Airtel Uganda during the ceremony held at the Kampala Serena Hotel Conference Centre.
Established in 2010, the ACIA Awards purport to foster innovation through the recognition and reward of outstanding ICT innovations. They provide a platform upon which outstanding ICT innovations can be showcased and propelled to further success. The awards were established in 2010 by the Uganda Communications Commission and have since recognized and awarded various innovations across several sectors including: Young Innovators, Business Excellence, Service Excellence, ICT for Development, and Digital Content. These winners and runners up of these five categories are determined by a panel of eminent and independent judges.
Commenting on the win, Airtel Uganda’s Marketing Director, Prasoon Lal said “Tugabane” was launched to enhance internet connectivity among Ugandans.
Since its inception, “Tugabane”, the first innovation of its kind in the Ugandan Mobile Internet industry, has seen continued increase in uptake by Airtel Uganda customers. The product has also rivaled traditional Wi-Fi hotspots which have limited coverage.
“On behalf of Airtel Uganda, I would like to express our gratitude to the Uganda Communications Commission which has provided a platform that allows for companies like ours to be celebrated for both our innovations and passions,” Lal said.
‘”Tugabane” is more that sharing data. It is convenient, fast, transcends location and finally, gives our customers data bundles at the most affordable rates,” he concluded.
Godfrey Mutabazi, Executive Director of Uganda Communications Commission said, “…the purpose of the ACIA awards is to encourage individuals, academia, industry, government agencies and other entities to harness ICTs in creating solutions to Uganda’s development challenges.” He thanked this year’s participants and called for increased participation in the coming year.