KAMPALA, Uganda — In a major blow to digital connectivity in the region, global satellite internet provider Starlink has officially disabled its network across Uganda. The move, effective as of January 1, 2026, follows a formal complaint and directive from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) regarding the company’s lack of a valid operating license.
In a formal letter dated January 2, 2026, addressed to UCC Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo, Starlink confirmed it has deployed a “new service restriction tool” specifically for the Ugandan territory. This tool has effectively terminated all active satellite connections within the country’s borders.
Ben MacWilliams, Starlink’s Director of Market Access at Space Exploration Technologies Corp (SpaceX), clarified that the company is moving to comply with local laws despite the sudden nature of the shutdown.
“As a result, as of 01 January 2026, there are no Starlink terminals operating in Uganda,” MacWilliams wrote.
The conflict over “illegal” imports
The UCC’s directive stems from allegations that Starlink was providing telecommunication services illegally.
While Starlink has been in the process of applying for a license, the regulator noted that hundreds of terminals were already in use across the country.
Starlink has distanced itself from these early adopters, explaining that any existing hardware was brought into the country through unofficial channels.
“To be clear, Starlink Uganda itself is not selling or marketing satellite internet services in Uganda because it is not yet licensed by the UCC,” MacWilliams emphasized.
“Any individuals who were operating Starlink terminals in Uganda prior to 01 January 2026 had purchased and activated the terminals in countries where Starlink is live and authorized, but then illegally imported them into your country.”
He further noted that such usage occurred without the company’s consent and constituted a violation of Starlink’s global terms of service.
Military oversight and election tensions
The shutdown arrives at a period of extreme political sensitivity.
On December 19, 2025, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) issued a memo placing the importation of all Starlink hardware under the direct oversight of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). This means that any future Starlink gadgets now require military clearance before entering the country.
Observers note that the timing, just two weeks before the January 15 general elections, is significant. Satellite internet, which operates independently of national fiber-optic and mobile networks, is often seen as a “failsafe” during government-ordered internet blackouts.
By disabling Starlink, the state ensures that all data traffic remains within regulated, terrestrial gateways.
Also Read: Starlink and Uganda’s 2026 election battle: Who controls the internet controls the vote
The current crackdown stands in stark contrast to signals sent by President Yoweri Museveni in 2025. Following a high-level meeting with Starlink officials at State House, the President publicly welcomed the technology as a solution for providing affordable, high-speed internet to Uganda’s rural and underserved populations.
Despite the current blackout, Starlink maintains that it hopes to reach a resolution with the Ugandan government soon.
“Starlink is committed to cooperating with the UCC’s regulatory requirements as we work to complete the licensing process in Uganda,” MacWilliams stated. “We appreciate your partnership and look forward to Starlink’s future in Uganda.”
