Uganda just slammed the brakes on Starlink gear at the border. The Uganda Revenue Authority issued an immediate restriction on importing and clearing Starlink satellite internet equipment. A customs memo from December 19 mandates that any shipment of this technology now needs an authorization letter from the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People's Defence Force. The directive gave no reason for the sudden move but requires military sign-off for these communication devices and components.
This clampdown contradicts President Yoweri Museveni's earlier public support for Starlink. He previously praised meetings with company representatives about expanding low-cost internet to remote areas. The service is seen as vital for improving connectivity, as Uganda's internet penetration sits around thirty percent, with high costs. Starlink is active in several African nations but hasn't officially launched commercially in Uganda, though private users have imported kits. The new rule, demanding UPDF clearance, highlights increased government scrutiny of satellite tech operating outside traditional networks. It will likely slow adoption as agencies sort out security and licensing issues, with customs officers ordered to enforce the rule strictly.
This clampdown contradicts President Yoweri Museveni's earlier public support for Starlink. He previously praised meetings with company representatives about expanding low-cost internet to remote areas. The service is seen as vital for improving connectivity, as Uganda's internet penetration sits around thirty percent, with high costs. Starlink is active in several African nations but hasn't officially launched commercially in Uganda, though private users have imported kits. The new rule, demanding UPDF clearance, highlights increased government scrutiny of satellite tech operating outside traditional networks. It will likely slow adoption as agencies sort out security and licensing issues, with customs officers ordered to enforce the rule strictly.
