Uganda has taken a major step toward introducing satellite-based internet services after the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and Starlink signed a Memorandum of Understanding alongside an operational licence agreement, signaling progress toward the commencement of Starlink’s operations in the country. The signing was done by UCC Executive director Hon. Nyombi Thembo and Mr. Ryan goodnight, Senior Director for Market Access and Development at SpaceX.

President Museveni, who witnessed the signing, said the government’s main interest is ensuring proper regulation and accountability within the telecommunications sector. He emphasized that Uganda’s priority is to maintain security oversight, ensure revenue assurance, and clearly identify operators and customers in the digital space. “Our interest is security, revenue assurance, and proper accountability within the telecommunications sector so that we know who is operating and who the customers are,” the President said. He noted that Starlink has agreed to comply with Uganda’s laws and regulatory requirements as it prepares to begin service delivery in the country, adding that he wished the company success.

Also present were the United States of America Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William Popp, and the Permanent Secretary at Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde.

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, is a satellite internet service designed to provide high-speed connectivity through a network of low Earth orbit satellites, particularly targeting areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited or unavailable. The agreement is widely seen as a step toward expanding internet access in underserved and remote regions of Uganda.

The U.S. Embassy in Uganda also welcomed the development, stating: “Congratulations on Starlink's arrival in Uganda to connect Ugandans all over the country to internet access for the first time with cutting-edge American satellite technology!”

While the announcement marks significant progress, Uganda’s telecommunications regulator has maintained a strong focus on compliance and oversight as new technologies enter the market. The agreement is expected to support structured rollout conditions, ensuring that satellite internet services operate within the country’s legal and regulatory framework.

Starlink’s entry into Uganda is part of its broader expansion across Africa, where the company has been gradually seeking approvals to operate in multiple countries as governments balance the promise of improved connectivity with national security, taxation, and regulatory requirements.

If fully deployed, the service is expected to improve internet access in rural and hard-to-reach areas, potentially reshaping digital connectivity in Uganda and contributing to wider adoption of online services across education, business, and communication sectors.