Uganda eyes Starlink deal as connectivity push meets security, coverage challenges

Uganda is edging closer to licensing satellite internet provider Starlink, in a move government officials say could transform connectivity in hard-to-reach areas and reshape the country’s digital landscape.

Minister of State for ICT Godfrey Baluku revealed that final discussions are underway to allow the service, operated by SpaceX, to operate in Uganda.

If approved, Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite network is expected to bridge longstanding connectivity gaps, particularly in rural areas where fibre infrastructure remains limited.

“This technology will enable internet access in areas not covered by fibre,” Baluku said, adding that increased competition would improve service quality and pricing while giving users more options.

Beyond Fibre: Expanding the Backbone

The Starlink push comes alongside continued investment in the national backbone infrastructure, a government-led project aimed at strengthening internet connectivity across the country.

Baluku clarified that the current phase of the rollout is focused on public institutions such as schools, hospitals and government offices, rather than direct access for individual users. The approach, he said, is intended to build a strong digital foundation before wider consumer expansion.

At the same time, government is tightening regulatory conditions for telecom operators. Under new proposals, companies will be required to cover at least 90 per cent of the country before their licences can be renewed.

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), working with the ministry, is also investing in additional telecommunications masts and promoting infrastructure sharing among operators — a strategy expected to accelerate near nationwide coverage within the next year.

Parliament Raises Red Flags

Even as government outlines an ambitious connectivity agenda, lawmakers are raising concerns about the country’s digital readiness, particularly around cybersecurity.

Stephen Aseera warned that rising cybercrime, including SIM card fraud, phone hacking and attacks on computer systems, is exposing citizens and institutions to increasing risk.

He called for stronger coordination between ICT agencies and security bodies, arguing that fragmented systems and weak enforcement are undermining efforts to protect users.

“Parliament needs assurance that government is treating cybercrime as a serious national security issue,” Aseera said, pressing for concrete interventions to strengthen prevention and response mechanisms.

SIM Card Loopholes and Public Wi-Fi Questions

Concerns were echoed by Betty Ethel Naluyima, who questioned the continued existence of unregistered SIM cards despite regulations requiring linkage to national identification.

She noted that even legislators have fallen victim to fraud linked to such loopholes and called for stricter enforcement to safeguard users.

Naluyima also sought clarity on the status of the government’s public Wi-Fi initiative, which had promised free hotspots in key urban locations such as Constitutional Square.

“It remains unclear whether the project is ongoing or has stalled,” she said, urging the ministry to account for progress on the rollout.

Connectivity and Competitiveness

Meanwhile, Elijah Dickens Mushemeza raised concerns about persistent internet challenges affecting businesses, particularly in the hospitality sector.

He warned that unreliable connectivity could undermine Uganda’s competitiveness, especially as the country prepares to host major international events alongside regional partners.

“Poor internet infrastructure risks affecting our ability to attract visitors,” he noted, calling for urgent improvements.

Budget Gaps and Missed Targets

The concerns come against the backdrop of a parliamentary report presented by Noah Musa, which flagged weaknesses in the Digital Transformation Programme.

According to the Committee on ICT and National Guidance, the programme scored below average in budget compliance during the last financial year, largely due to missed targets — including delays in expanding internet access under the last-mile connectivity initiative.

Balancing Expansion and Security

As Uganda pushes to modernise its digital infrastructure, the debate highlights a delicate balance between expanding access and ensuring security and efficiency.

The potential entry of Starlink signals a major shift in the connectivity landscape, promising to complement terrestrial networks. However, lawmakers insist that without stronger safeguards and better execution, increased access could also amplify vulnerabilities.

For policymakers, the challenge now is not only to connect more Ugandans, but to ensure that the country’s digital future is secure, inclusive and globally competitive.