UCC ANNOUNCES NATIONWIDE ENFORCEMENT AGAINST ILLEGAL PUBLIC WI-FI SERVICES

KAMPALA, July 07, 2026 – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced a nationwide enforcement exercise targeting illegal public Wi-Fi operators as part of efforts to protect consumers, safeguard communications infrastructure, and uphold the integrity of Uganda’s digital ecosystem.

The enforcement follows investigations that uncovered the activities of unlicensed operators installing telecommunications equipment to provide unauthorised public Wi-Fi hotspot services across the country.

Speaking on the development, UCC Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo said that while the Commission welcomes the rapid expansion of internet access and the emergence of new connectivity businesses, all providers of public internet services must operate within the country’s legal and regulatory framework.

“As internet access continues to grow rapidly across Uganda, demand for affordable connectivity has created new business opportunities. However, providing public internet services requires compliance with national laws and regulations to protect consumers and preserve the integrity of our communications ecosystem,” he said.

The Executive Director noted that illegal Wi-Fi installations not only operate outside the regulatory framework but also expose consumers to significant risks while undermining the security and reliability of critical communications infrastructure.

He explained that licensing internet service providers goes beyond granting permission to operate. Licensed providers are required to comply with strict quality-of-service standards, protect consumer information, provide customer support, and adhere to cybersecurity requirements.

“Those operating without a licence expose consumers to unreliable services, potential data privacy violations, cyber threats, and limited avenues for redress when complaints arise,” he said.

The Commission said the enforcement exercise will be undertaken in collaboration with licensed Internet Service Providers (ISPs), other licensed communications operators, and relevant government agencies.

According to UCC, the objective is to ensure that all providers of public internet services operate within the established legal and regulatory framework and are held to the same standards of accountability, security, and service reliability.

The Commission is urging individuals and businesses currently offering unauthorised public Wi-Fi services to regularise their operations without delay or cease providing the services altogether.

Consumers have also been advised to obtain internet services only from licensed providers or their authorised agents to guarantee secure, reliable, and accountable services.

Established under the Uganda Communications Act, Cap. 103, UCC is mandated to regulate Uganda’s communications sector, including telecommunications, broadcasting, radio communications, postal services, data communications, and communications infrastructure.

The Commission reaffirms its commitment to fostering a secure, innovative, and affordable communications environment that supports Uganda’s ongoing digital transformation.