Published on 30/04/2025
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has backed a potential partnership with Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service to boost nationwide connectivity at affordable rates.
“Yesterday in Nakasero, I had a productive meeting with Starlink representatives, Ben MacWilliams and Brandi Oliver, brought to me by Ambassador Adonia Ayebare and Ambassador Popp. I appreciate their commitment to providing low-cost internet in hard-to-reach areas and establishing a presence in Uganda. They are welcome,” Museveni announced via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday.
The meeting marks a significant step in efforts to improve digital inclusion in Uganda, where internet penetration remains low, with only about 27% of the population having access.
The President’s remarks come at a time when Uganda is seeking to boost its digital infrastructure and accelerate socioeconomic transformation through improved technology access.
Former Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) Board Chairman Morrison Rwakakamba welcomed the development, describing it as a major milestone in Uganda’s digital journey.
“This is powerful, Mr. President — make it happen as Uganda moves and leaps towards a great technology future,” Rwakakamba stated.
“The availability of Starlink in Uganda will indeed advance connectivity goals and foster economic development in support of Uganda Vision 2030 and the National Plan for Sustainable Development.”
Rwakakamba noted that the Starlink partnership could enhance national connectivity by offering fast, reliable internet across Uganda’s diverse terrain, including rural and mountainous areas.
He added that access to satellite internet would improve educational opportunities by enabling more Ugandans to benefit from online learning platforms and digital skills training.
He further explained that small businesses, which contribute more than 80% of Uganda’s GDP, would be empowered to innovate, adopt e-commerce, and access new markets. In the healthcare sector, telemedicine could allow local medical providers to consult with specialists worldwide, improving service delivery in remote areas.
He also emphasized that in times of disaster—such as floods and mudslides that regularly disrupt infrastructure—Starlink could provide crucial communication support, helping to minimize losses and coordinate response efforts.
Starlink, which has recently launched services in Nigeria, Rwanda and Kenya, is positioning itself as a game-changer for connectivity across Africa.
Uganda could soon join that list, with government support signaling progress toward policy alignment and regulatory approval.
