The Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) is UCC’s strategic initiative that aims to provide coverage to areas that are not economically viable for licensed telecommunications operators. The program strategically provides coverage to areas not economically viable for licensed telecom operators (MNOs). The regulator is rolling out their mobile network in sparsely populated areas in Uganda, some what them in direct competition with existing operators.
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UCC uses a coverage mapping tool and reports from MNOs to identify sub-counties with less than 30% geographic 3G coverage. Coverage is determined by a signal strength of more than -90dBm. The new solar-powered site was launched today by the Minister of ICT Hon. Dr. Baryomunsi Chris and UCC ED Hon. Nyombi Thembo a telecom site in Lapono sub-county, Agago district. While this program has already rolled out 2G sites and upgraded 2G to 3G sites in the past, this launch raises awareness of a new batch of 63 sites being rolled out by Towerco Of Africa.
One of the key components of the UCUSAF program is the Access Infrastructure initiative. To identify areas with limited coverage, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) utilizes a coverage mapping tool and reports from mobile network operators (MNOs). Sub-counties with less than 30% geographic 3G coverage and a signal strength of more than -90dBm are identified as priority locations for infrastructure development.
Determining the optimal site for wireless coverage involves precise triangulation of the target area. Strategic placement is crucial, as it maximizes coverage while optimizing technical and financial resources, including spectrum utilization. Interestingly, a single mast can strategically cover multiple sub-counties, making the infrastructure rollout more efficient.
Currently, UCUSAF has earmarked sixty-three sites for subsidy funding, with seven of them already fully constructed and four now live. These sites, including Kasimbi, Nyambigha (Karugutu), Kyazirimu (Kyebando), Kagara (Kabuyanda), Lapono (Agago), Lyabana (Island), and Kyampangara (Kazo), serve as examples of the program’s progress. Tower of Africa Uganda Limited is the infrastructure provider responsible for implementing these sites.
UCUSAF Future plans
The anticipated subsidy cost for constructing the sixty-three sites is 12 billion Ugandan shillings. This funding is strategically allocated to cover various aspects of the infrastructure rollout, including land acquisition, civil works, and complementary infrastructure. By ensuring comprehensive support for the construction and enhancement of these sites, UCUSAF aims to maximize their practical functionality and extend coverage reach.
Looking ahead, UCUSAF has set an ambitious goal of completing up to 200 sites over the next five years. This expansion plan aims to cover 42% of the total area of the 117 identified sub-counties. By increasing access to ICTs in these underserved areas, UCUSAF aims to empower communities, foster economic development, and bridge the digital divide.
UCUSAF operates through demand-side and supply-side programs that encompass a wide range of initiatives. These programs include ICT in Education, ICT for Persons with Disabilities, ICT for Agriculture, Digital Skilling, Internet Connectivity, Access Infrastructure, Youth Multimedia, Research Support, and Devices for Underserved Communities. By addressing various aspects of ICT development, UCUSAF aims to bridge the digital divide and promote inclusive growth.
The UCUSAF Access Infrastructure Program is a strategic initiative that aims to enhance connectivity in areas that are not economically viable for licensed telecommunications operators. Through the construction of strategically placed sites, UCUSAF is working towards bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive growth. With its comprehensive approach and ambitious expansion plans, UCUSAF is poised to make a significant impact on enhancing access and usage of ICTs in Uganda’s unserved and underserved areas.
