Uganda ranks 23rd of 56 Commonwealth countries on youth AI readiness
A Commonwealth study says Uganda scores 47.0 out of 100, below its readiness benchmark of 53, and that AI could add US$899 million to its GDP over a decade.
Uganda ranks 23rd out of 56 Commonwealth countries in the inaugural 2026 Commonwealth Youth AI Readiness Index, scoring 47.0 out of 100. The index, produced by the Ayre Think Tank, was unveiled on the sidelines of the Commonwealth leaders' summit in St John's, Antigua and Barbuda, from 1 to 4 November. It found Uganda is marginally behind Kenya, which ranks 22nd with 48.7 points, and ahead of Tanzania at 25th with 45.5.
The study estimates artificial intelligence could increase Uganda's GDP by US$899 million over the next decade, provided it creates conditions for young people to benefit. Uganda has 13.4 million people aged 15 to 29. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics' 2025 Labour Market Survey puts youth unemployment among people aged 15 to 24 at 17.9%, with young women at 21% and young men at 15.2%.
UBOS estimates that 42.6% of people aged 15 to 24, about four million people, are outside employment, education or training. Among those aged 18 to 30 the proportion rises to 51%.
Why it mattersYoung women in the 15 to 24 age group face a 21% unemployment rate, and about four million young people are outside work, education or training.