Uganda grants licence to Starlink
May 18, 2026
By Chris Forrester
Uganda has become the 28th African country to grant permission to SpaceX’s Starlink broadband-by-satellite system.
President Museveni announced the deal, noting Starlink’s commitment to complying with Ugandan laws and regulations. Museveni said that he had a “productive meeting” with the representatives of tech billionaire Elon Musk’s Starlink, which is looking to establish a presence in the East African country.
Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Adonia Ayebare, added that Starlink’s satellite internet service will soon be introduced across the country, a move officials say will expand connectivity and support economic growth. Ayebare said Starlink will provide nationwide coverage, including remote areas that currently lack connectivity. He noted that the service will support education, health services and economic activity.
Starlink’s entry into Uganda’s telecom market will threaten the dominance of the MTN Group and Bharti Airtel, two well-established telecoms operators. They may have to rethink their strategies as affordable, widespread internet could attract consumers seeking better service, spurring competitive pricing and bringing innovation into the sector.
President Museveni signed the approval certificate on May 15th with Starlink’s Ryan Goodnight. Our image shows Goodnight and Executive Director of Uganda Communications Commission, Nyombi Thembo.
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