President Yoweri Museveni held a high-level meeting with representatives of Starlink, the satellite internet division of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, at Nakasero State House yesterday to discuss plans to deploy low-cost, high-speed internet services across Uganda, particularly in remote and underserved regions, as part of the government’s broader strategy to accelerate digital transformation and economic inclusion.
The meeting, facilitated by Uganda’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Robie Kakonge Adonia, and U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William W. Popp, saw President Museveni engage directly with Starlink’s delegation led by Ben MacWilliams, Head of Global Licensing and Activation, and Brandi Oliver, Africa Market Development Lead. The talks underscored mutual interest in leveraging cutting-edge satellite technology to overcome infrastructural barriers that have long hindered connectivity in rural areas.
“I appreciate their commitment to providing low-cost internet in hard-to-reach areas and establishing a presence in Uganda. They are welcome,” President Museveni stated, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), signaling strong government support for the initiative.
Starlink’s satellite-based internet service, which operates through a constellation of low-earth orbit satellites, has gained global attention for its ability to deliver high-speed broadband to regions lacking traditional fiber-optic or cellular infrastructure. For Uganda, where a minority of the population has internet access, the technology will offer a transformative solution.
The partnership holds strategic value for both parties. For Starlink, Uganda represents a key entry point into East Africa’s rapidly growing tech market. Regulatory approval to operate in the country would expand its footprint on the continent, where it already serves 15 African nations. For Uganda, the collaboration dovetails with ongoing efforts to boost digital literacy, e-governance, and innovation under the Digital Uganda Vision 2040.
See also: Burundi becomes 15th African nation to receive Elon Musk’s Starlink internet service
Critically, the project could address connectivity gaps in regions where geographical challenges make traditional infrastructure prohibitively expensive. “Satellite internet bypasses the need for cables and towers. If priced accessibly, it could democratize opportunities for millions,” said a tech analyst.
However, while the government has welcomed Starlink’s overtures, questions remain about affordability. Starlink’s hardware costs—currently around US$400 (approx. UGX1.5 million) for a user kit—which is steep for the average Ugandan. While this pricing is competitive in developed regions with robust economies, it poses significant challenges for individuals and businesses in low-income countries.
According to available data, Uganda’s average monthly income is estimated at US$200 (approx. UGX750,000). Therefore, consumers who can’t solely afford the service can alleviate financial burdens through sharing models, where multiple households share one Starlink connection. However, the company has hinted at subsidized models for low-income markets.
See also: Starlink vs Traditional ISPs: The African Price Disruption
Few concrete details have emerged from the closed-door meeting.
It was unclear if Starlink has applied for a license to operate in Uganda; if not, the team is expected to present a formal proposal to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). Pending approval, pilot initiatives are projected to roll out as early as 2025, with full-scale satellite internet services slated for nationwide availability by 2026, aligning with Starlink’s projected service map.
Uganda’s push for universal internet access mirrors a continental trend. African governments are increasingly turning to satellite providers to meet connectivity targets. However, success hinges on balancing private-sector efficiency with public-sector oversight to ensure equitable access.
See also: OP-ED: Starlink’s African Invasion, A Revolution or a Recipe for Ruin?
