Starlink just geofenced Uganda out of its service over illegal user kits. SpaceX's satellite internet division confirmed it has blocked all terminals within the country, stating no devices are operating there as of the new year. The company sent a letter to the Uganda Communications Commission, signed by Starlink Market Access Director Ben MacWilliams, clarifying that it holds no local license and does not sell or market services inside Uganda. It acknowledged individuals had been illegally importing and activating kits from authorized countries, a direct violation of its terms.
This move follows a crackdown by Ugandan regulators ahead of the 2026 elections. The UCC warned against using unapproved satellite gear last month, citing major security and infrastructure threats. It prompted the Uganda Revenue Authority to issue a customs directive blocking all Starlink equipment imports unless explicitly authorized by the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Starlink expressed its commitment to cooperating with the UCC to complete the licensing process, noting it looks forward to a future in the country, a sentiment previously echoed by President Yoweri Museveni regarding rural internet expansion.
The situation underscores a broader conflict between connectivity and control. Starlink has expanded across several African nations, like Nigeria and Kenya, offering broadband in remote areas, but Uganda’s low internet penetration remains hampered by high costs and poor infrastructure. The government's security-focused restrictions highlight the regulatory challenge posed by satellite networks that operate independently of traditional telecom systems.
This move follows a crackdown by Ugandan regulators ahead of the 2026 elections. The UCC warned against using unapproved satellite gear last month, citing major security and infrastructure threats. It prompted the Uganda Revenue Authority to issue a customs directive blocking all Starlink equipment imports unless explicitly authorized by the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Starlink expressed its commitment to cooperating with the UCC to complete the licensing process, noting it looks forward to a future in the country, a sentiment previously echoed by President Yoweri Museveni regarding rural internet expansion.
The situation underscores a broader conflict between connectivity and control. Starlink has expanded across several African nations, like Nigeria and Kenya, offering broadband in remote areas, but Uganda’s low internet penetration remains hampered by high costs and poor infrastructure. The government's security-focused restrictions highlight the regulatory challenge posed by satellite networks that operate independently of traditional telecom systems.
