Cybersecurity experts in Uganda have expressed concerns over the growing threat of cybercrime, driven by the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Johnson Tumusiime, a Security Analyst at the National Information Technology Authority – Uganda (NITA-U), warned that AI is escalating the scale and sophistication of financial crime. This warning was made during the EastCon 2026 Cybersecurity Symposium, held at the National ICT Innovation Hub in Nakawa, Kampala.
The symposium, part of the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month activities, highlighted the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and improved digital resilience among institutions. Tumusiime emphasized that organisations must strengthen their systems to withstand cyberattacks and ensure critical services remain operational even when normal systems fail. He outlined key measures, including identifying and holding accountable owners of critical services, matching digital access with operational responsibilities, and testing recovery mechanisms.
The recent discovery of critical security flaws in PHP, a widely used programming language, has underscored the need for vigilance. Tumusiime's remarks come as Uganda, like many countries, increasingly relies on digital platforms for financial transactions and service delivery, creating opportunities for criminals to exploit security weaknesses using emerging technologies. This shift has raised concerns about the potential for significant financial losses.
According to police records, up to Shs 72 billion was lost to cybercrime in 2024 alone. However, cybersecurity experts believe that financial losses resulting from cybercrime in Uganda could be far higher than officially reported. Emmanuel Chagara, Chief Executive Officer of Milima Security, pointed out that a recent study by the Anti-Fraud Consortium indicated that only about 2% of financially motivated cybercrime cases are reported.
Chagara cited a report by Interpol, which stated that Africa lost about $485 million to cybercrime in 2025. He stressed the need for greater public awareness, education, and stronger cybersecurity practices to mitigate these threats. The EastCon 2026 Cybersecurity Symposium, organized by Milima Security, brought together experts from various sectors, including legal, health, and financial institutions, to discuss these issues.
Legal experts at the symposium warned that AI developers and businesses could face liability for harm caused by artificial intelligence, including cyber fraud and data breaches. Galandi Tony Kiire, a partner at Diamond Advocates, urged organisations to strengthen cybersecurity and seek legal advice. He revealed that discussions are underway with the Uganda Law Reform Commission to develop dedicated AI legislation for the country.
The experts emphasised that strong cybersecurity systems and proper documentation can help organisations defend themselves in court. With the increasing reliance on digital technologies, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has become more pressing. As Uganda continues to navigate the challenges of digital transformation, the importance of awareness, education, and effective legislation will only continue to grow.
Key points
- Financial losses from cybercrime in Uganda could be significantly higher than reported, with police recording Shs 72 billion in losses in 2024.
- Cybersecurity experts are calling for stronger measures and improved digital resilience among institutions to combat AI-driven threats.
- Uganda is considering dedicated AI legislation to address the growing threat of cybercrime and ensure accountability.
