Uganda Clears Starlink for Operations

Uganda officially cleared Starlink to begin operations in the country following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding and operational license agreement at State House, Entebbe, on 15th May 2026. The agreement between Uganda Communications Commission and Starlink marks a major step in expanding internet access and strengthening Uganda’s digital transformation journey. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni witnessed the signing ceremony and welcomed Starlink’s commitment to operate in accordance with Uganda’s laws and regulatory framework. “Our interest is security, revenue assurance, and proper accountability within the telecommunications sector so that we know who is operating and who the customers are,” President Museveni said. He added that he was pleased with Starlink’s willingness to comply with Uganda’s requirements as the company prepares to roll out services in the country. The agreement was signed by the Executive Director of Uganda Communications Commission, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, together with representatives from SpaceX, led by Mr. Ryan Goodnight. Also present at the ceremony were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the United States Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William Popp, and Uganda’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Robinah Kakonge. Following the signing, Hon. Thembo issued the necessary certification to guide Starlink’s rollout in Uganda. The licensing framework requires the company to establish a national gateway, a physical point of presence, and an operational office in Uganda, staffed with technical and legal support personnel. The move is expected to improve internet connectivity, especially in remote and underserved areas where access has remained limited. Speaking during the event, Mr. Goodnight described the agreement as an important milestone for both Starlink and Uganda. “It is a great honor to be here in this beautiful country. We are incredibly excited that we are forging this cooperation and bringing this network here,” he said. He noted that Starlink aims to lower internet costs and help more people participate in the digital economy through reliable connectivity. Mr. Goodnight also revealed that the company plans to support sectors such as education and healthcare by donating internet connectivity devices to selected facilities nationwide. The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance welcomed the development, describing it as a significant opportunity to expand digital access, support innovation, and create new opportunities for Ugandans in business, education, healthcare, and communication. As Uganda continues to invest in digital transformation, the arrival of Starlink is expected to strengthen connectivity and bring more communities online nationwide.