Free internet excites Oyam market vendors

What the report says

Free internet at Oyam Daily Market in northern Uganda is drawing interest from traders who say the connection is helping them find information, promote their businesses and reach customers. According to The Independent Uganda, the service comes from a Rural Community Broadband Network installed at 12 sites in Oyam District as part of a digital inclusion project.

The project was launched in May 2025 by Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) in partnership with netLabs!UG and the Internet Society Foundation. The network is still undergoing technical testing, but vendors at the market say it is already making a difference. WOUGNET said more than 60 people in the district have received digital literacy training ahead of the network’s wider use.

Market leaders said the service is especially helpful for women traders, who no longer need to spend money on mobile data to go online. One vendor said the free access is reducing daily data costs and improving access to business and education resources. WOUGNET also reported that the equipment is functioning and being used by communities.

The broader plan is to extend digital access beyond market vendors to schools, health centres, farmer groups and small businesses. Local officials and project organizers say the initiative could help strengthen livelihoods by improving access to online services, market information and wider economic opportunities.