The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) is reviewing concerns raised by Wi-Fi and hotspot operators following enforcement actions against businesses suspected of providing internet services without the required authorisation. UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo has promised a public notice on the matter before the end of this week, raising expectations among operators seeking clarity on the regulations governing their businesses.
Thembo made the announcement after meeting Wi-Fi and hotspot operators on the morning of October 12, 2026, alongside the Commission’s top management. The engagement provided a platform for operators to present their concerns and discuss the impact of enforcement measures on businesses offering internet connectivity through wireless networks.According to Thembo, the meeting followed several complaints and letters submitted by operators affected by the enforcement actions.
He said the Commission had decided to examine the issues carefully, emphasising the importance of fairness, professionalism and an objective assessment before determining the appropriate way forward.Despite the concerns raised, the UCC chief maintained that internet service providers must operate within the established regulatory framework. He explained that proper regulation was necessary to protect the public interest while allowing businesses in the communications sector to grow and contribute to the country’s digital transformation.To explain the potential consequences of unregulated operations, Thembo referred to the concept of the tragedy of the commons, which describes how individuals pursuing their interests without considering the wider consequences can ultimately harm everyone.
He compared the situation to overgrazing, where excessive use of shared land can destroy pasture and leave insufficient resources for the animals that depend on it.Thembo argued that allowing internet businesses to operate outside regulatory requirements could create wider challenges for the communications industry and the public. He said UCC had a responsibility to protect infrastructure development, public safety and national revenue streams that help finance essential public services. However, he did not specify the particular regulations at the centre of the operators’ complaints.The UCC boss thanked the operators for participating in what he described as constructive discussions, adding that their contributions would inform the Commission’s next steps. He said UCC would continue engaging stakeholders to address the concerns raised while ensuring that businesses comply with the law and operate sustainably.Thembo said the Commission would issue a public notice before the end of the week to provide further clarity on its position and the way forward. The announcement is expected to be closely followed by hotspot operators, internet service providers and customers who rely on Wi-Fi for affordable connectivity, particularly as affected businesses await guidance on the requirements they must fulfil to continue operating legally.
