• UCC has assured Ugandans that there are currently no plans to switch off the internet during the upcoming elections.
  • Uganda now enjoys about 70% 4G coverage, active 5G in Kampala, and expanding digital connectivity nationwide.
  • Starlink satellite internet is expected to officially launch in Uganda this week in partnership with Airtel, boosting rural access.

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has moved to calm growing public anxiety over a possible internet shutdown during the upcoming elections, assuring Ugandans that there is currently no plan to switch off internet services.

Speaking to the media on Monday morning, UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo dismissed fears that the government is considering an internet blackout similar to those experienced during the 2016 and 2021 elections. He stressed that, as of now, there is no indication whatsoever that internet access will be disrupted.

“There has been a lot of speculation and fear among the public, but we want to assure you that so far, there is no indication that the internet will be switched off,” Nyombi Thembo said. “If that indication ever arises and a decision is taken in that direction, we will return to this same podium, brief you, and clearly explain why such an action has been taken.”

Nyombi noted that while the UCC remains vigilant, it is not in the business of speculation. Instead, the commission’s current focus is on ensuring reliable, fast, and widespread internet connectivity across the country.

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“The internet is on, it is available, and people are using it,” he said, adding that residents in Kampala are already enjoying 5G connectivity. According to the UCC boss, approximately 70 percent of the country is now covered by 4G internet, a major milestone in Uganda’s digital growth.

In a development likely to excite many Ugandans, Nyombi also revealed that Starlink, the satellite internet service, is expected to officially launch in Uganda this week. The service is set to operate in collaboration with Airtel and promises to significantly improve internet access, especially in hard-to-reach and rural areas.

“You’ve heard that Starlink is coming, and we believe we shall be launching this week,” he said. “This will allow people to get internet signals anywhere in the country. Our work as UCC is to ensure that broadband is available everywhere, all the time.”

The assurance comes at a time when online activity is central to business, communication, and political engagement. With memories of past election-related shutdowns still fresh, Nyombi Thembo’s remarks are expected to offer some relief to citizens, businesses, and digital content creators who rely heavily on uninterrupted internet access.

For now, Ugandans can remain online—and hopeful—as the country prepares to take another step forward in expanding its digital infrastructure.