Go for satellite internet, UCC advises corporates

What the report says

Uganda Communications Commission Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo urged government and private sector organisations to make greater use of satellite internet, saying the arrival of Starlink reduces excuses for poor connectivity. Speaking in Kampala at the 2026 Financial Reporting (FiRe) Awards, he argued that reliable internet is now central to how organisations work, communicate and report performance, and said better adoption of digital tools can improve efficiency and accountability.

The remarks came as UCC said it remains dissatisfied with the pace of internet connectivity in Uganda, even as access continues to expand. According to The Independent Uganda, Nyombi linked the push for satellite-based connectivity to wider efforts to strengthen digital transformation and support business operations. He also noted that telecom operators such as Airtel and MTN have already partnered with Starlink on products including satellite-to-phone services, direct consumer plans, enterprise offerings and network integrations.

Nyombi also used the event to encourage early adoption of IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards ahead of their mandatory rollout in 2028. He said such reporting can help build investor confidence and support Uganda’s long-term economic goals. The FiRe Awards, organised by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda, also recognised organisations for financial reporting and sustainability performance, with Pearl Bank Uganda Ltd and MTN Uganda among the highlighted winners.