Uganda’s telecom industry is set to undergo a significant transformation in 2025, driven by emerging technologies and evolving customer demands, MTN Uganda Chief Executive Officer Ms. Sylvia Mulinge, said during a media roundtable at MTN Uganda headquarters in Kampala.
Mulinge noted that key trends such as artificial intelligence, low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and innovations in mobile financial services will shape the sector’s future, presenting telecom operators with both opportunities and challenges.
“Generative AI will be a game-changer in telecom,” Mulinge said. “We are already seeing global providers use AI to predict network disruptions and resolve issues before they affect customers. AI-powered tools like chatbots are transforming customer engagement, making services more efficient and responsive.”
Mulinge identified LEO satellites as another critical innovation, noting their potential to extend connectivity to remote and underserved areas. So far, Starlink and OneWeb are at the forefront of this technology, which experts say, could complement traditional telecom infrastructure and help bridge the digital divide in rural Uganda.
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The increasing availability of affordable smartphones is accelerating internet penetration and giving more Ugandans access to digital services and economic opportunities.
Mulinge also noted that mobile financial services are poised to reshape the telecom landscape, with a growing population embracing mobile money for transfers, payments, savings, and investments.
In line with these global trends, Mulinge said MTN Uganda is positioning itself at the forefront of the sector’s transformation. She emphasized that the company’s strategic priorities for 2025 focus on expanding network coverage, driving digital and financial inclusion, and investing in sustainability and innovation.
She said the company’s recent rollout of 5G sites and upgrades to MTN’s 4G network in rural areas reflect its commitment to improving connectivity for all Ugandans.
See also: 5G Revolution: MTN Uganda’s bold step towards connectivity
“Expanding network coverage in rural areas is not just about business—it’s about ensuring that every Ugandan has access to the opportunities the digital world offers,” Mulinge said. “Our investments in mobile money services, from micro-lending and savings to cross-border remittances, are designed to empower communities and foster economic growth.”
Mulinge highlighted MTN Uganda’s focus on partnerships with governments and businesses to digitize payment systems, which aligns with a broader push toward a cashless economy. She also emphasized that sustainability and social impact remain central to the company’s long-term strategy. She noted ongoing investments in green technologies and community-driven initiatives, reflecting MTN Uganda’s commitment to fostering positive change.
She concluded by noting that the digital transformation happening in the telecommunication industry will unlock new opportunities in education, healthcare, and agriculture, driving economic growth and empowering communities.
