Free internet access excites traders in Oyam market

What the report says

Free internet access at Oyam Daily Market in northern Uganda is giving traders new ways to find information, advertise goods and reach customers, according to The Observer. The service is part of a rural community broadband network installed at 12 sites across Oyam District and is currently undergoing technical testing, although vendors say it is already affecting day-to-day business.

The network was set up under a project launched in May 2025 by Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET), working with netLabs!UG and the Internet Society Foundation. The pilot is meant to test a rural broadband model for communities that often struggle with affordable connectivity, with intended benefits for women-led farmer groups, schools, health centres and small businesses. The report says more than 60 people in Oyam have already received digital literacy training before the network becomes fully operational.

Market leaders said the connection is helping women traders access online learning materials, business opportunities and other services without paying for mobile data each time they go online. A food vendor told the publication the free access is reducing daily data costs and helping close information gaps. WOUGNET said its recent inspection found the equipment installed correctly and being used by local communities, and that the next phase will measure broader impact on teachers, learners and farmers. Local officials welcomed the project as a way to connect vendors with traders and customers beyond Oyam.