The Government has launched a crackdown on unlicensed public Wi-Fi hotspot operators in Kampala and neighbouring districts over the alleged illegal sale of internet data and unauthorised provision of telecommunications services.
The operation follows complaints about individuals and businesses selling internet services without regulatory approval, prompting the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and security agencies to step up enforcement.
The operators are accused of connecting routers, cables and signal boosters to telecommunications infrastructure without authorisation, while selling internet services outside legally established channels and undercutting licensed internet service providers.
Minister of ICT and National Guidance Justine Kasule Lumumba warned that the Government would not tolerate illegal internet businesses that undermine regulatory requirements and deprive the state of revenue.
“We cannot continue losing revenue through illegal activities by people who have not followed the proper procedures to sell internet services. We shall not sit back and allow this criminality to continue when we know where it is happening,” Lumumba said.
She made the remarks during a plenary session of Parliament on October 27, 2026.
Lumumba said the Government was committed to enforcing existing laws while also exploring ways to make internet services more affordable and accessible to Ugandans.
She called for Parliament to consider measures that would address the cost of internet services while supporting legitimate private-sector investment in the country’s digital transformation.
“We have the law, and we should look at what we can do through the committee of parliament to address the cost of internet. We should consider both the Government and the private sector in transforming digitalisation in the country,” she said.
Meanwhile, UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said the regulator had received letters and complaints requiring further examination following earlier discussions on compliance and enforcement within the communications sector.
According to UCC, between 30 and 40 formally licensed telecommunications and internet service providers operate in Uganda in addition to major operators MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda.
The crackdown comes amid growing attention to the regulation of internet distribution, with authorities seeking to ensure that businesses providing connectivity operate within the law.
The Government has also emphasised the need to balance enforcement with efforts to improve internet affordability and create an environment in which licensed service providers can compete fairly.
