Uganda Launches NISF 2026 Cybersecurity Framework Update

In Short

• Uganda has launched the National Information Security Framework (NISF) 2026.
• The aim is to protect government infrastructure as more services move online.
• The update follows a costly 2024 security breach at the Bank of Uganda.

What Happened

Uganda’s Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has rolled out the updated National Information Security Framework (NISF) 2026. NISF 2026 is the government’s playbook for how public institutions should secure their systems, data, and networks.

The framework was developed under the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project. It introduces stricter security tools and baseline controls, meaning minimum required protections that every public institution must implement.

The move comes as digital threats rise in Uganda. Industry reporting cited in the source points to a 60% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks. In November 2024, a breach at the Bank of Uganda led to losses reported at UGX 62 billion, around $16.8 million.

Minister Justine Kasule Lumumba said the shift to digital public services makes cybersecurity a national priority, not just an IT concern. She linked information security to public trust, service reliability, and economic stability.

For enforcement and coordination, the ministry has directed government entities to work with the National Information Technology Authority, Uganda, known as NITA-U. NITA-U Executive Director Dr Hatwib Mugasa said the 2026 framework moves the country from general threat awareness to hands-on technical execution.

Why It Matters

Cybersecurity frameworks like NISF 2026 can reduce fragmentation across government IT systems. They also make it easier to audit compliance, set common standards, and respond faster when incidents happen.

For startups and vendors selling into the public sector, stronger baseline controls can change procurement requirements. Expect more requests for security documentation, access controls, and incident response plans.

Uganda’s update also reflects a wider trend across Africa, where digital government growth is pushing cybersecurity and cyber resilience higher up the policy agenda.