Telecommunications firms in Uganda told to suspend data services

KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Communications Commission has directed telecommunications firms to suspend data services and most internet functions starting Tuesday evening, a move officials said is necessary for security during the general election.

The order from the regulator followed a recommendation by the Inter-Agency Security Committee. It took effect at 6 p.m. local time and will remain in place until further notice.

In addition to the data suspension, the commission has halted the sale and registration of new SIM cards and outbound data roaming services to One Network Area countries. Nyombi Thembo, the commission executive director, said the measures aim to prevent the spread of misinformation and incitement of violence during the Jan. 15 polls.

Under the directive, telecommunications companies must block all nonessential public internet traffic. This restriction covers social media platforms, web browsing, video streaming and messaging applications across mobile broadband, fiber optic and satellite networks.

The commission also instructed providers to disable mobile Virtual Private Network services to prevent users from bypassing the restrictions.

Limited exemptions were made for critical infrastructure. Services allowed to remain online include core banking and interbank systems, national referral hospitals, utility management and transportation control systems for aviation and railways. Tax and immigration portals will also remain accessible through secure, whitelisted connections.

The regulator warned that any firm unable to comply with the specific service suspensions must shut down its entire internet infrastructure. Companies that violate the order face fines or the suspension of their operating licenses.

The shutdown is expected to cause significant disruption for millions of subscribers who rely on mobile data for daily communication and business operations.