MTN Uganda delivers increased regulatory contribution to UCC’s Universal Service and Access Fund

MTN Uganda on Monday presented a cheque of Shs 50.55 billion to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), representing 2% of their gross annual revenue in accordance with their licensing obligations. The handover took place at the UCC headquarters in Bugolobi, where MTN Uganda CEO, Sylvia Mulinge, delivered opening remarks, highlighting the company’s commitment to advancing Uganda’s digital future.

Mulinge expressed gratitude to the UCC and its Executive Director, Thembo Nyombi, for their support in this endeavor. “I’m proud to announce that MTN Uganda is contributing approximately Shs 50.55 billion to the Universal Service and Access Fund this year. That’s up from Shs 42.5 billion last year and Shs 36 billion in 2023,” Mulinge stated.

While acknowledging the contribution as a licensing requirement, Mulinge emphasized its deeper significance. “It reflects our purpose: to ensure that every Ugandan, no matter where they live or what they earn, can enjoy the benefits of a connected, digital life.”

Mulinge highlighted the significant digital divide in Uganda, citing UCC’s Fourth Quarter 2024 report, which indicates that only 18.2 million out of Uganda’s 51 million mobile subscribers are using smartphones, representing a penetration rate of just 35.6%. This lags significantly behind regional peers such as Kenya (over 72%) and South Africa (over 90%).

“The digital divide remains real and the opportunity to bridge it even greater. We’re acting on that opportunity,” she affirmed, noting that smartphone penetration on the MTN network has risen from 39.1% to 44.9% over the past year due to initiatives like #MTNKabodeSupa and device financing partnerships.

Mulinge acknowledged affordability as a major barrier to smartphone adoption and stated that MTN continues to engage with stakeholders to advocate for progressive tax policies, zero-rated access to key platforms, and wider digital literacy programs.

Beyond affordability, MTN recognizes the importance of digital skills. The company has established over 63 ICT labs in educational institutions, including technical vocational institutions, and continues to roll out digital training through its MTN Internet Bus, empowering thousands across Uganda with the skills needed to thrive in a digital world.

“We see it as a call to action. Let’s work together to bridge the gap, not just in infrastructure, but in access, skills, and opportunity,” Mulinge concluded, urging collaboration to build a digital Uganda where everyone can thrive.

UCC Executive Director, Thembo Nyombi, welcomed the MTN Uganda team, commending their consistency and commitment in fulfilling their 2% levy obligations. He highlighted the contribution towards ICT labs in schools, the Internet Bus, and digital skilling, stating, “Together, we’re working toward a Uganda where no one is left behind in the digital age.”

Nyombi emphasized the significance of MTN’s growing contributions, noting, “From UGX 36B in 2023 to UGX 50.55B today, MTN’s growing contributions show a thriving sector. This is not just a number…it signals progress made possible by a supportive policy and regulatory environment.”