The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has reported significant strides in expanding digital access and connectivity across the country. Speaking at the Digital Africa Summit in Kampala, UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said the Commission is transforming Uganda’s ICT policy goals into measurable achievements that promote affordability, inclusion, and economic growth.
Expanding Access Through Mobile Connectivity
According to UCC’s latest figures, Uganda now has 34.6 million active mobile money subscriptions and 16.5 million mobile internet users. The sector continues to play a central role in banking, payments, and credit access — driving financial inclusion and powering small business growth.
Thembo emphasized that the Commission’s focus on spectrum efficiency and regulatory oversight has improved service quality and reduced costs for consumers. “Our mission is to ensure that every Ugandan, regardless of location or income level, benefits from digital transformation,” he said.
UCUSAF Extending Rural Connectivity
Through the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) — previously the Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF) — UCC has brought internet and communication infrastructure to schools, health centers, and local governments. Established in 2001, UCUSAF targets regions where private investment remains commercially unviable, bridging the digital divide in rural Uganda.
The initiative aligns with Uganda’s Digital Vision and National Development Plan IV, which aim to achieve 90% nationwide broadband coverage through the National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) program. State Minister for ICT Godfrey Kabbyanga reaffirmed that ICT remains central to national transformation, calling it “the engine of socio-economic growth, innovation, and inclusion.”
Partnerships Driving Africa’s Digital Future
The summit, organized by the GSMA in partnership with UCC and the Ministry of ICT, brought together policymakers, innovators, and investors to shape Africa’s digital future. GSMA Africa Head Angela Wamola applauded Uganda’s achievements but urged continued policy reform to unlock greater innovation.
“Africa’s digital economy is already powering growth, but urgent reforms are needed to ensure that mobile technology transforms education, healthcare, financial services, and governance,” she said. “The mission is clear — no one left behind.”
The UCC digital inclusion progress marks a milestone in Uganda’s broader vision to use ICT as a driver of equity, access, and opportunity — connecting people, communities, and industries across every region of the country.
