Uganda’s Kampala In order to increase affordable internet access throughout Uganda, particularly in rural and underserved areas, President Museveni has approved a possible collaboration with Starlink, a satellite internet business owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
Ambassadors Adonia Ayebare and Popp brought me Starlink representatives Ben MacWilliams and Brandi Oliver, and we had a fruitful meeting yesterday in Nakasero. I value their dedication to building a presence in Uganda and offering affordable internet in remote locations. They are welcome,” Museveni declared on Monday through his official X account, which was formerly Twitter.
In Uganda, where only roughly 27% of people have access to the internet, the meeting represents a major step in the country’s efforts to increase digital inclusion.
The president’s comments coincide with Uganda’s efforts to improve access to technology in order to accelerate social economic transformation and strengthen its digital infrastructure.
Morrison Rwakakamba, a former chairman of the board of the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), praised the development and called it a significant turning point in Uganda’s digital transformation.
Rwakakamba said, “This is powerful, Mr. President — make it happen as Uganda is moving and leaping towards a great technology future.”
“Starlink’s availability in Uganda will, in fact, promote economic growth and connectivity objectives in support of Uganda Vision 2030 and the National Plan for Sustainable Development.”
Rwakakamba pointed out that by providing fast, dependable internet throughout Uganda’s varied terrain, including rural and mountainous areas, the Starlink partnership could improve national connectivity.
He continued by saying that more Ugandans would be able to take advantage of online learning resources and training in digital skills if they had access to satellite internet.
He added that small companies, which account for over 80% of Uganda’s GDP, would have the freedom to develop, embrace e-commerce, and enter new markets. Telemedicine has the potential to enhance service delivery in remote areas by enabling local healthcare providers to consult with specialists across the globe.
Additionally, he underlined that Starlink could offer vital communication support during disasters, such as floods and mudslides, which frequently disrupt infrastructure, assisting in minimizing losses and coordinating response efforts.
Starlink, which has recently launched services in Nigeria, Rwanda, and Kenya, is positioning itself as a game-changer for connectivity across Africa.
With government backing indicating progress toward regulatory approval and policy alignment, Uganda may soon be added to that list.
