The Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Nyombi Thembo, has applauded MTN Uganda for expanding connectivity and advancing digital inclusion across the country.
The commendation followed MTN Uganda's handover of a UShs 54.27 billion cheque to the telecom regulator.
The remittance fulfills a statutory requirement under Uganda's regulatory framework. Licensed operators must contribute 2% of their annual gross revenue to the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF).
Managed by UCC, the fund finances the expansion of communications services to unserved and underserved regions.
The financial handover marks steady growth in MTN Uganda's annual contributions to the fund. The telecom giant remitted UGX 36 billion in 2023, UGX 42.5 billion in 2024, and UGX 50.55 billion in 2025.
MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer, Sylvia Mulinge, stated that the payment reflects a deep commitment to national development.
“These contributions reflect our belief that every Ugandan, regardless of where they live or what they earn, deserves the benefits of a modern connected life because, in today’s world, connection is opportunity,” Mulinge said.
Uganda currently counts more than 20 million connected smartphones against a national population of over 45 million people.
Mulinge noted that substantial gaps in digital inclusion still remain despite notable infrastructure progress. She urged the government to lower the cost of smart devices for low-income populations.
“We need to unlock smart phone affordability because that is the gateway through which millions of Ugandans connect to learning, enterprise, financial services and opportunity,” Mulinge advised.
The affordability drive aligns with the newly announced national budget priorities.
Nyombi Thembo praised the telecom operator for treating the statutory levy as a shared investment rather than a regulatory burden.
“While this contribution represents compliance with a licensing requirement, it is much more than that,” Nyombi Thembo said. “It is a tangible demonstration of MTN Uganda’s continued commitment to the growth and sustainability of Uganda’s communications sector.”
The regulator splits the collected funds into two distinct portions. UCC remits half of the contribution to the Consolidated Fund and retains the balance to support UCUSAF initiatives.
The retained money also funds the Uganda Institute of Information and Communication Technology (UICT) based in Nakawa.
UCUSAF targets communities that are otherwise commercially unviable for private sector investment.
The infrastructure drive aligns with the National Development Plan IV, Vision 2040, and UCC's Strategic Plan. The regulator aims to deliver a fully connected Uganda by 2030.
“The future of Uganda’s economy will depend on how effectively we connect people to digital opportunities while ensuring that no one is left behind,” Nyombi Thembo concluded.
