Uganda Restricts Starlink Imports, Requiring Military Approval Ahead of Elections
A directive from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has placed an immediate restriction on the importation of Starlink satellite internet equipment, requiring authorization from the country’s military chief—a move that has ignited debate about communication freedom weeks before a national election.
The Official Directive
On December 19, 2025, the URA’s Customs Compliance Department issued an internal memo to all staff announcing “the immediate restriction on the importation and customs clearance of Starlink technology gadgets, communication equipment and associated components”.
The key requirement is that any import declaration for these items must now be accompanied by a clearance or authorization letter from the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). Customs officials have been instructed to enforce this guidance strictly and immediately.
Government’s Justification: A “Standard” Security Measure
In response to the ensuing public debate, URA spokesperson Robert Kalumba has stated that the directive is being misinterpreted. He frames the requirement as a routine security measure.
Official Statement: Kalumba argues that requesting security clearance for sensitive communication equipment is “a worldwide practice”. He explained that such global regulations are intended to protect national security by preventing technologies from being misused.
International Comparisons: The URA cites practices in other nations to justify its position. Officials mention that countries including India, Pakistan, South Africa, and the Democratic Republic of Congo have requested security clearances before allowing Starlink services. They also point to prolonged debates in Italy over adopting Starlink for government use, which have centered on national security concerns and the push for European alternatives.
Political Context and Public Criticism
The timing and nature of the restriction have led to significant political and public criticism, particularly because it was enacted just 24 days before Uganda’s January 2026 general elections.
· The Approving Authority: The requirement for a letter from the CDF has drawn particular attention because the current Chief of Defence Forces is General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Yoweri Museveni. This concentrates approval power for the technology within the first family.
· Election-Related Concerns: Critics directly link the move to the upcoming polls. They recall that the government switched off the internet during the 2021 elections and fear this restriction is a pre-emptive measure to control alternative communication channels. Opposition figures have labeled the move as evidence of a “regime gripped by fear” of unrestricted internet access during the electoral process.
· Contradiction with Previous Stance: The restriction appears to contrast with President Museveni’s earlier public support for Starlink. In April, he praised the company’s commitment to providing low-cost internet in hard-to-reach areas and stated, “They are welcome”.
Broader Implications for Connectivity and Regulation
Impact on Connectivity: Starlink is valued for its ability to deliver high-speed internet in areas with poor traditional infrastructure. In Uganda, where internet penetration is estimated at only 27-30%, the service is seen as a potential solution for remote schools, health centers, and businesses. This restriction could temporarily slow the adoption of such satellite broadband solutions.
Regulatory Status: It is important to note that Starlink has not officially launched commercial operations in Uganda and has not been licensed by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). Equipment has been entering the country through private users and resellers. The government’s move signals a tightening of oversight on emerging communication technologies, bringing Uganda in line with a regional trend. For example, Cambodia’s telecom regulator recently announced a full prohibition on importing and distributing Starlink devices, which it also labeled as illegal and a threat to national security.
In summary, while Ugandan authorities present the Starlink import restriction as a standard security protocol, its timing on the eve of a contentious election and the centralization of approval power have raised significant concerns about its underlying motives and impact on digital access.
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