Uganda Restricts Import of Starlink Technology, Citing Need for Military Authorization
KAMPALA — The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has announced an immediate restriction on the importation and customs clearance of Starlink technology gadgets, communication equipment, and associated components.
The directive, issued by the Commissioner Customs Department (CCD) in a December 19, 2025 memorandum, states that any import declaration for such items must now be accompanied by a clearance or authorization letter from the Chief of Defense Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
The memo, addressed to all customs staff and copied to the Commissioner General, emphasized that the guidance takes effect immediately and requires full compliance.
The move effectively restricts public access to Starlink user terminals, the satellite internet system founded by Elon Musk. Starlink’s low-earth-orbit satellites provide high-speed internet, often in remote or underserved areas, but its decentralized nature makes it difficult for national governments to monitor or control.
According to observers, the Ugandan government’s decision appears linked to the system’s resilience to being shut off by state authorities—a feature that has drawn both praise for promoting connectivity and concern from governments about unregulated communication channels.
No official reason beyond the new authorization requirement was provided in the memorandum signed by Asadu Kigozi Kisitu for the CCD.
The restriction raises questions about the future of digital connectivity and internet freedom in Uganda, where Starlink had been viewed by some as a solution to limited terrestrial internet infrastructure, particularly in rural regions.
As of now, it remains unclear how authorization from the UPDF will be granted, what criteria will be applied, or whether the restriction is temporary or permanent. Businesses and individuals hoping to import Starlink kits must now navigate the new military clearance process before clearing the items through customs.
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