Uganda’s communications regulator has clarified that Starlink is not licensed to operate in the country, stressing that its actions against the satellite internet provider are part of routine regulation and are not connected to the upcoming general elections.
The clarification was made on Monday during a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Aminah Zawedde, and the Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Hon. Nyombi Thembo.
The officials said recent public debate has centred on two main issues: the status of Starlink in Uganda and the spread of misinformation ahead of the elections. Dr Zawedde underscored the importance of access to accurate information and the responsible use of digital platforms, noting that these are critical to meaningful democratic participation, especially during election periods.
She revealed that the ministry has been engaging broadcasters and media practitioners nationwide to promote professionalism and ethical reporting. However, she warned that some media actors continue to disseminate false information, a practice she said poses a risk to peace and public order during elections.
Dr Zawedde further reminded the public that online platforms are governed by the law, emphasizing that the Computer Misuse Act applies to digital conduct, including the spread of false, misleading or offensive information.
Addressing the Starlink issue specifically, Hon. Nyombi Thembo said Starlink Global Internet Services Ltd has expressed interest in providing satellite internet services in Uganda, acknowledging that such technology could significantly improve connectivity, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
However, he stressed that no company is permitted to offer telecommunications services in Uganda without approval from UCC. “The law applies equally to all providers under a technology-neutral licensing regime,” Thembo said.
He explained that Starlink has not yet met key pre-licensing requirements set by the commission and, as a result, has not been authorised to commence commercial operations in the country.
Thembo also revealed that some Starlink terminals had been illegally imported and activated in Uganda, largely due to the service being licensed in neighbouring countries. He said such usage is unlawful without a local licence.
Following a formal complaint from Ugandan authorities, Starlink agreed to halt service spill-over into the country and has since implemented technical measures to block and freeze active terminals operating illegally in Uganda.
The UCC boss reiterated that the matter is purely regulatory and has no connection to the elections. He added that the commission is also reviewing applications from other satellite internet providers, including OneWeb and Amazon’s Project Kuiper.
On election-related concerns, both officials dismissed reports suggesting an impending internet shutdown as false.
“The government has not announced or implemented any decision to shut down the internet during the election period,” Dr Zawedde said.
Hon. Thembo urged the public to verify information before sharing it, warning that spreading false information is an offence. He also reminded broadcasters and digital content creators to comply with licensing requirements and emphasized that only the Electoral Commission has the constitutional mandate to declare election results.
The officials concluded by calling for responsible use of digital platforms as the country heads into the election season, urging citizens and media alike to prioritise accuracy, professionalism and national stability
