President Yoweri Museveni has endorsed the entry of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, into Uganda, highlighting its potential to deliver affordable broadband to underserved regions and help bridge the country’s persistent digital divide.
The announcement came after Museveni hosted Starlink officials Ben MacWilliams and Brandi Oliver at State Lodge Nakasero. They were joined by Uganda’s UN Permanent Representative, Ambassador Adonia Ayebare, and U.S. Ambassador William Popp.
“Yesterday, I had a fruitful discussion with representatives from Starlink,” Museveni shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account. “Their plan to offer affordable internet in remote areas and invest in Uganda is appreciated and fully welcomed.”
Starlink, operated by Musk’s aerospace company SpaceX, provides internet via a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites. This model avoids reliance on conventional infrastructure like fibre optics and cell towers—still largely absent in Uganda’s rural areas.
While Uganda has made progress in expanding internet access, it still trails neighboring countries in both coverage and affordability. According to the Alliance for Affordable Internet (A4AI), the cost of 1GB of mobile data in Uganda averages $0.84—higher than Kenya and Rwanda—and remains especially burdensome for lower-income groups.
Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) spokesperson Ibrahim Bbosa called Starlink’s launch a major step toward universal connectivity. “If rolled out effectively, it could enhance digital services such as remote learning, telemedicine, and inclusion across rural Uganda,” he said.
As of 2023, Uganda’s internet penetration was around 58%, with most connectivity concentrated in urban areas. Rural communities continue to face barriers such as limited electricity and infrastructure.
Starlink’s solution involves customer-owned satellite kits—including a dish and router—capable of providing fiber-like speeds in off-grid locations. While the initial hardware cost (around $500 globally) poses a challenge, Starlink has explored subsidies and partnerships in other African countries to improve accessibility.
Digital rights advocates cautiously welcomed the news. Dorothy Mukasa, executive director of Unwanted Witness, said, “Access to affordable and reliable internet is a basic right. Starlink could be key to decentralizing connectivity and safeguarding free expression in rural Uganda.”
Already operating in countries like Nigeria, Rwanda, and Mozambique, Starlink is in the process of securing licenses elsewhere on the continent. Though it’s unclear what local regulatory hurdles remain, Museveni’s endorsement signals strong political support to fast-track the process.
“This collaboration could revolutionize rural development, education, and grassroots innovation,” Museveni said. “We embrace all partners aligned with Uganda’s growth and digital vision.”
Under Vision 2040, Uganda aims to accelerate digital transformation, and global partnerships like Starlink may help overcome long-standing infrastructure limitations that have hindered inclusive growth.
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