Starlink blocks its operations in Uganda ahead of elections

Elon Musk’s Starlink has blocked all satellite internet terminals in Uganda, complying with a government directive over unlicensed operations ahead of the upcoming 2026 general elections.

The US-based company, operated by SpaceX, confirmed in a letter dated 2 January to the Uganda Communications Commission that it activated geofencing restrictions on 1 January, blocking service nationwide.

“As of 1 January 2026, there are no Starlink terminals operating in Uganda,” wrote Ben MacWilliams, SpaceX director for Starlink market access.

Starlink stressed it holds no licence in Uganda and has never marketed, sold or distributed equipment there. It acknowledged, however, that users illegally imported terminals from licensed countries, violating its terms of service.

Regulatory crackdown

The move follows intensified measures by Ugandan authorities. In December, the Uganda Communications Commission warned against unauthorised satellite devices, citing risks to national security and communications infrastructure.

On 19 December, the Uganda Revenue Authority ordered customs officials to halt Starlink imports unless approved in writing by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, chief of defence forces and son of President Yoweri Museveni.

The directive fuelled speculation of efforts to control information flows during the campaign period, where Museveni, in power since 1986, is expected to face strong opposition, including from musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine.

Critics recall the 2021 election internet shutdown, which blocked social media and restricted access for days. Satellite services like Starlink, bypassing terrestrial networks, offered a potential workaround for activists, journalists and citizens.

“These restrictions raise serious concerns about digital freedoms at a critical moment,” one Kampala-based rights advocate told AFP on condition of anonymity.

Cooperation and future prospects

Starlink expressed willingness to obtain a licence. “We are committed to cooperating with the UCC’s regulatory requirements and look forward to Starlink’s future in Uganda,” MacWilliams wrote.

Museveni previously welcomed the technology. Last year, after meeting Starlink representatives, he praised its potential for affordable internet in rural areas, where penetration stands at 27-30% due to high costs and poor infrastructure.

Broader African context

Uganda joins a pattern of African governments grappling with satellite broadband. *Starlink* operates legally in more than 25 countries on the continent, including Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda and Mozambique, delivering high-speed connections to remote regions.

Yet regulatory hurdles persist elsewhere, often over licensing, data sovereignty and competition with local telecoms.

In Uganda, the timing amplifies tensions. Opposition figures and digital rights groups fear the *Starlink* block and import curbs signal broader controls.

“Independent satellite internet is hard to monitor or shut down conventionally,” noted a telecom analyst in Nairobi. “That is precisely why some authorities view it warily ahead of polls.”

Starlink has not commented publicly beyond its letter, and Musk has made no statements on the issue.

As Uganda prepares for the polls, the blackout leaves former users – including remote workers and businesses – disconnected from the satellite alternative, underscoring the clash between technological innovation and state oversight in Africa’s digital landscape.