Uganda’s efforts to expand digital access have received a major boost after American Tower Company (ATC) Uganda injected Shs20.9 billion into the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) to support the extension of communication services to underserved communities across the country.The contribution was officially handed over to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) during a ceremony at the Commission’s headquarters in Kampala.
The event was attended by the Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Joyce Ssebugwawo, UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo, and ATC Uganda Chief Executive Officer Dorothy Ssemanda, who highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in driving Uganda’s digital transformation.Hon. Ssebugwawo said the funding will play a critical role in helping government achieve its vision of ensuring that all Ugandans, including those in remote areas, have access to reliable communication services. She noted that improved connectivity is opening new opportunities in education, healthcare, trade, and financial inclusion.
The minister praised the partnership between UCC and private sector companies, saying investments in communication infrastructure are essential in reducing the digital divide and allowing more citizens to participate in the digital economy. She emphasized that access to technology has become a key driver of social and economic development.UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo described UCUSAF as a vital national initiative aimed at bringing communication services closer to communities where commercial investment has been limited.
He said contributions from telecom industry players enable the Commission to support infrastructure projects that benefit millions of Ugandans.ATC Uganda CEO Dorothy Ssemanda said the company remains committed to strengthening connectivity by supporting the expansion and maintenance of communication towers across the country. She explained that every additional tower helps mobile network operators reach more households, schools, health facilities, and businesses.However, Ssemanda noted that the telecommunications infrastructure sector continues to face challenges, including delays in securing construction approvals from some authorities such as KCCA, NEMA, and UCAA. She also raised concern over vandalism of communication equipment, including cables and batteries, which disrupts services and increases operational costs.She further revealed that misconceptions about communication towers in some communities continue to slow infrastructure expansion.
Ssemanda said some residents oppose tower construction due to false beliefs, making public awareness important in helping communities understand the benefits of improved connectivity.The Shs20.9 billion contribution marks another milestone in Uganda’s journey towards achieving wider digital inclusion. With continued cooperation between government, regulators, and private companies, the country is expected to accelerate the rollout of communication services and ensure that more Ugandans benefit from the opportunities created by a connected society.
