"Libraries of Things" are a growing trend in Uganda. While the term may be new, the concept of sharing tools, equipment, games, and toys dates back centuries in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia. These libraries offer a valuable way for people to access resources they might not otherwise be able to afford, promoting sustainability, community, and innovation.
Using a Library of Things provides a number of benefits. First, it's a more sustainable way to consume resources. By borrowing items instead of buying them new, people can help reduce waste and conserve materials. Second, these libraries help build community by creating spaces for people to interact and share knowledge. Finally, they promote creativity and innovation by giving people access to a wide variety of tools and equipment, which can lead to new businesses and ideas.
While some notable initiatives have changed, the concept continues to thrive. One well-known organization, SWAPafrica Library of Things, which provided tools and equipment in Kampala, has unfortunately closed its operations. However, other important innovation hubs continue to operate and contribute to this ecosystem.
Some of the prominent innovation hubs currently active in Uganda include:
UniPod is a multidisciplinary innovation hub at Makerere University (Kampala) . It provides resources, training, and facilities—including a Makerspace, Design Lab, and CNC Workshop—to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The hub is a great platform for both students and external innovators to collaborate on impactful solutions.
Located within the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) in Nakawa, this hub is a catalyst for homegrown digital solutions. It provides a dynamic environment for ICT innovators with challenges related to workspace and internet connectivity. The hub offers a variety of programs, including training sessions, mentorship, and business development advice.
One of Uganda's first innovation hubs, Hive Colab serves as a community-owned co-working space and incubator for young tech entrepreneurs. It aims to build local tech and business capacity by offering a collaborative environment, mentorship, and access to the internet. They run programs like the Hive Accelerator, which supports startups, and have a main location in Kampala.
This hub acts as a "launchpad" for innovators and entrepreneurs, building a complete ecosystem to support ventures from ideation to scale. Their goal is to grow companies that solve significant challenges in Africa. They offer venture studios, catalytic capital funds, co-working space, and business acceleration services, with their headquarters located in Kampala.
Outbox acts as a launchpad for new ideas, providing workspace, business incubation, and technical training. They focus on helping African entrepreneurs use technology to build high-growth companies. They offer co-working spaces and a range of programs aimed at fostering talent and collaboration, and they are located in the business district of Kampala.
Initially part of The Innovation Village, MoTIV (Makers of The Innovation Village) became its own entity to focus specifically on the creative and cultural industries. It provides a physical space and resources to help creatives grow their businesses, offering access to professional kitchens, a textile workshop, and a wood and metal factory, located on Old Portbell Road, Kampala.
Women in Technology Uganda (WITU)
Founded in 2012, WITU is a non-profit dedicated to empowering women and girls from underserved communities through technology education and business skills. They offer intensive training programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities to help women secure jobs and become entrepreneurs. While they have a headquarters in Kampala, they operate across more than 35 districts in Uganda.
