President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Friday witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and operational license agreement between the Uganda Communications Commission and Starlink, officially paving the way for the satellite internet provider to commence operations in Uganda.
The agreement marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s digital transformation agenda, with government officials expressing optimism that the entry of Starlink will help bridge the country’s internet connectivity gap, especially in remote and underserved communities.
Starlink, a satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, provides high-speed broadband internet through a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites. The service has rapidly expanded across Africa in recent years, targeting areas where traditional fiber and mobile internet infrastructure remain limited or unreliable.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, President Museveni welcomed the development, describing internet access as a critical driver of socio-economic transformation, innovation, and education.
The operational license granted by UCC authorizes Starlink to begin offering services in Uganda under the country’s telecommunications regulatory framework.
Government officials said the partnership is expected to improve internet penetration in hard-to-reach districts, schools, health centres, businesses, and other public institutions that have historically struggled with poor connectivity.
Uganda has in recent years intensified efforts to expand digital access as part of its broader strategy to support e-government services, digital trade, online learning, and innovation-driven economic growth.
The arrival of Starlink is also expected to increase competition within Uganda’s internet service market, potentially improving service quality and extending broadband access to communities that have remained offline due to infrastructure challenges.
Across Africa, Starlink has already launched operations in several countries, with users praising its ability to deliver internet connectivity in areas where conventional telecom infrastructure is either weak or non-existent.
Technology analysts say Uganda’s decision to license the company could particularly benefit businesses operating in rural areas, humanitarian agencies, tourism facilities, and educational institutions requiring stable internet services.
However, experts also note that affordability of user equipment and subscription fees will likely determine the speed at which the service is adopted by ordinary Ugandans.
The signing of the agreement comes at a time when Uganda is pushing for increased digital inclusion and positioning itself to attract more technology investments into the country.
Industry observers believe the move could further strengthen Uganda’s ambitions of becoming a regional technology and innovation hub.
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