Concerns Raised Over High Mobile Money Charges Amid Soaring Telecom Profits
Kampala, Uganda – August 9, 2025 — Debate over mobile money transaction costs has reignited following revelations about the scale of daily transactions and the profits raked in by telecom companies operating in Uganda.
Industry estimates indicate that Ugandans perform between 12 million and 16 million mobile money transactions every day. If telecoms charged a flat fee of just Shs 1,000 per transaction — far less than current rates — they would collect between Shs 12 billion and Shs 16 billion daily.
The actual fees charged, which vary based on transaction amounts and service types, have sparked public outrage. Critics say the charges drain liquidity from the economy, limiting cash flow and stifling small-scale commerce.
In 2024, Airtel Uganda reported after-tax profits of Shs 311 billion, further fueling calls for scrutiny of the sector’s pricing models. Activists are now questioning how telecom companies determine their tariffs and who is responsible for regulating them.
Currently, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) oversees telecom operations, while the Bank of Uganda regulates aspects of mobile money services. However, consumer rights groups argue that enforcement of fair pricing and market competitiveness remains inadequate.
With the hashtag #StopAirtelTheft trending online, calls are growing for a comprehensive review of mobile money charges to ensure affordability and protect Uganda’s cash-dependent economy.
