The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has held discussions with hotspot and Wi-Fi operators as part of its ongoing enforcement campaign against unlicensed internet service providers, seeking to address industry concerns while reinforcing regulatory compliance.
Following a meeting in Kampala on Monday, UCC officials confirmed that operators had submitted grievances and formal complaints regarding the regulation of the sector. However, the commission did not disclose the specific concerns raised.
UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said the commission had taken time to examine the submissions, emphasising the need to balance public protection with industry growth. He warned that operators bypassing established regulatory frameworks could undermine the wider telecommunications sector and the public interest.
The meeting followed earlier engagements on enforcement measures targeting unauthorised internet providers and compliance with Uganda’s communications regulations. Thembo reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to continued stakeholder consultation, alongside protecting infrastructure development, public safety and national revenue streams that support essential public services.
The crackdown began in July under the Uganda Communications Act, which requires entities providing public telecommunications services to obtain the appropriate licence. Some independent operators reportedly purchase bulk internet packages from major providers, including MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda, before reselling connectivity under their own brands without the necessary authorisation.
According to the UCC, unlicensed services may fall short of established quality-of-service standards and expose users to cybersecurity threats and data breaches. Operators providing public Wi-Fi hotspots or internet distribution services are required to obtain a Public Service Provider (PSP) licence to operate legally.
The commission’s latest engagement highlights the regulatory challenge of expanding affordable internet access while ensuring that independent connectivity providers meet licensing, service-quality and security requirements. The outcome of the discussions could shape how Uganda regulates the growing market for community-based Wi-Fi and alternative internet distribution services.
