Uganda’s Mobile Device Landscape Surges to 58.3 Million Active Connections as Smartphone Adoption Grows
Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s digital transformation agenda is gaining remarkable momentum, with the latest Q1 2026 market data from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) revealing a significant surge in mobile device adoption across the country.
As of March 2026, Uganda recorded a total of 58.3 million active mobile device connections, comprising a diverse mix of technologies. According to the UCC Market Performance Report (Jan–Mar 2026), this includes 20.3 million smartphones, 24.7 million feature phones, and 13.3 million basic phones. This figure complements the 47.5 million active mobile subscriptions reported in the same period, indicating that many users operate multiple devices.
This evolution in the device landscape signals a brighter, more inclusive future for digital services. Regardless of the type of device, connectivity is proving to be a powerful tool for communication, accessing vital government services, and unlocking new economic opportunities.
“This surge in mobile devices reflects a brighter future where access to digital services is within everyone’s reach. A connected Uganda means empowering every individual to participate in the digital economy,” the Commission noted in a statement.
To ensure that no one is left behind, the government, through the UCC’s Universal Service and Access Fund (#UCUSAF), continues to implement initiatives aimed at closing the digital gap. These efforts focus on expanding ICT infrastructure and digital skills training, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
Recent UCC activities highlighted in the report include digital skills training for smallholder farmers in Adjumani, ICT empowerment for women in the informal sector across 25 districts, and support for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) through assistive technologies.
As Uganda pursues its Connected Uganda 2030 vision, the focus remains on ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their location or the type of device they own, is included in the nation’s digital transformation journey.
Source: UCC Market Performance Report Q1 2026 (Jan–Mar 2026) & UCC Official Social Media (March 2026)
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