For the few who have been using Starlink in Uganda—the satellite internet service from Elon Musk’s SpaceX that beams high-speed internet from space—you might have noticed something alarming recently. Many users are now seeing a message on their Starlink app saying “Restricted Location” and “Starlink is not currently available in this country.” The connection no longer works, even if it was fine just days ago.
This isn’t a technical glitch or bad weather blocking the signal. It’s a deliberate decision by Starlink to block service in Uganda. Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s going on, explained step by step for anyone to understand.
What is Starlink, and How Was It Working in Uganda Before?
Starlink uses a network of thousands of small satellites orbiting Earth to provide internet almost anywhere, even in remote areas where traditional cables or cell towers don’t reach. You buy a dish (like a small satellite antenna), point it at the sky, and get fast internet.
Starlink isn’t officially launched in Uganda yet—it doesn’t have the required government license from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). But for a while, some people in Uganda could still use it. How? They bought the equipment in nearby countries like Kenya (where Starlink is legal) and brought it back home. This is called “roaming” or unofficial use. It worked because the satellites don’t care about borders much.
Why Did Starlink Block Service Now?
On January 2, 2026, Starlink sent an official letter to the UCC explaining the change. In the letter, Starlink says:
- They received a warning from the UCC about “illegal” use of their service in Uganda.
- In response, Starlink turned on a new “service restriction tool” on January 1, 2026.
- As a result, no Starlink dishes (called terminals) are working in Uganda anymore.
- Any previous use was against Starlink’s rules, and the equipment was imported illegally.
The screenshot you see in the app (with the “Restricted” banner and the message about the service not being available) is exactly what happens when Starlink enforces this geoblock. The app still shows stats like ping success (71.7%) and low latency (27 ms), but that’s likely old data from before the block kicked in fully—the connection itself is cut off.
Starlink stressed they’re working on getting a proper license and want to cooperate with the government. They hope to launch officially in Uganda soon.
Why Is This Happening Right Now?
Timing is key here. Uganda is holding national elections on January 15, 2026. In the last elections in 2021, the government shut down the internet for days to limit communication. Many worry something similar could happen again.
Starlink is “uncensorable” in a way—it’s hard for governments to block because it doesn’t rely on local networks. With import restrictions already in place since late December 2025 (requiring special military approval to bring in equipment), fully blocking existing users closes off one of the last ways people could stay online if traditional internet goes down.
What Does This Mean for Users?
- If you have a Starlink dish in Uganda right now, it won’t connect to the internet.
- You can’t buy new equipment easily due to import rules.
- Starlink says they’re committed to coming back legally once licensed.
This shows how governments and tech companies sometimes clash over control of the internet, especially during sensitive times like elections. For everyday people in rural areas who relied on Starlink for work, school, or staying connected, it’s a big setback until an official launch happens. Starlink has expanded quickly across Africa (it’s available in over a dozen countries), so there’s hope Uganda could join soon—but for now, the satellite door is closed.
