Uganda explores satellite internet as Museveni pledges to cut data prices

KAMPALA, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni announced the government is exploring a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink to lower internet costs in Uganda, provided the satellite service proves affordable.

During a discussion with young content creators and journalists at State Lodge Nakasero, Museveni said the move would mark a potential shift back toward satellite technology if it can compete with current prices.

“If the satellite becomes cheaper, we shall allow it,” Museveni said.

The president noted that Uganda previously moved away from expensive satellite connections to undersea fiber-optic cables to reduce data costs. He credited government intervention for breaking monopolies held by telecommunications companies, which he said helped expand access.

However, Museveni acknowledged that high taxes and “last-mile” connectivity issues continue to keep prices high for the youth, who rely on digital platforms for content creation and business. He pledged a government review of these bottlenecks.

The interactive session, titled “Jazz with Jajja” and hosted by Natasha Museveni Karugire, touched on broader economic and geopolitical issues. Museveni urged the “bazukulu,” or grandchildren, to focus on regional markets and economic transformation rather than entertainment.

“It is interesting that many young people talk about dancing and football, which are good, but rarely talk about the regional market,” he said.

Addressing global politics, Museveni cited the recent U.S. arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as a warning for Africa to strengthen its strategic security. He expressed concern that Africa remains vulnerable as global powers advance in military and space technology.

“The Americans, Chinese, Russians and Indians are on the moon,” Museveni said. “We are here. They see us as insects. This is dangerous.”

The president also discussed the 2021 shutdown of Facebook in Uganda, stating the platform was blocked due to misuse. He said the government remains open to engagement if social media platforms operate responsibly.

On the domestic economy, Museveni emphasized that prosperity comes from production and “ekibaro,” or calculation. He pointed to the transition from a colonial-era economy based on raw exports to one focused on value addition in sectors like dairy, coffee and manufacturing.