MTN Uganda, a leading telecommunications provider, has reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the digital divide in Uganda with a substantial investment of UGX 42.5 billion into the Uganda Communications Commission’s (UCC) Universal Service and Access Fund. This significant contribution, a notable increase from last year’s Shs 36 billion, aims to accelerate the development of telecommunications services in underserved regions.
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MTN Uganda’s CEO, Sylvia Mulinge, emphasized the company’s dedication to ensuring that every Ugandan can benefit from a modern connected world. She stated, “Connectivity is the cornerstone of our economy, vital for modernizing education, revolutionizing healthcare, and enabling financial inclusion through digital technologies.” This investment aligns with MTN’s 2025 strategy of leading digital solutions for Africa’s progress.
Recent statistics from the UCC underscore the need for expanded connectivity efforts. The second quarter of 2023 saw an influx of 600,000 new mobile phone subscriptions, bringing the total to 34.9 million. Additionally, there was a 6% increase in active mobile internet users, reaching 12.5 million, primarily driven by the widespread adoption of smartphones.
Thembo Nyombi, Executive Director of the UCC, highlighted the positive impact of previous funding on expanding telecommunications services. He noted that 85% of government secondary schools now have internet-connected computer labs. However, he acknowledged the need to address the gap in primary schools, where many students lack access to computers. Nyombi also revealed that the UCC has used the Universal Service and Access Fund to establish 65 masts in commercially unviable areas over the past two years.
MTN Uganda is calling on all stakeholders to join forces in this transformative journey towards a more connected and digitally empowered Uganda. The company believes that through collaboration, innovation, and effective implementation, significant strides can be made in shaping the nation’s digital landscape.
MTN Uganda’s investment of Shs 42.5 billion into the Universal Service and Access Fund represents a major step forward in bridging the digital divide and ensuring that all Ugandans can participate in the digital age. This initiative not only addresses the growing demand for connectivity but also fosters digital skills and infrastructure development, ultimately contributing to the nation’s progress.
