MTN Uganda turns to Starlink as satellite internet competition intensifies

What the report says

MTN Uganda has introduced a satellite internet product aimed at businesses and institutions in remote parts of the country, adding new competition in Uganda’s telecom sector as operators look for ways to serve areas beyond mobile and fibre networks. The Independent Uganda reported that the service, branded “MTN Starlink for Business,” uses low-Earth-orbit satellite technology to provide connectivity where conventional infrastructure is limited, unreliable or too expensive to extend.

The launch comes after Airtel Uganda rolled out its own Starlink-related satellite-to-mobile offering in September. MTN’s version is positioned differently: it is designed for organisations using dedicated equipment rather than direct smartphone access. MTN Uganda chief executive Sylvia Mulinge said the company sees location as a barrier it wants to reduce, while the business service is meant to work as a primary connection, backup link or option for places without terrestrial coverage.

MTN unveiled the service at Libra International School in Zirobwe, Luweero District, where school leaders said connectivity problems had affected teaching, administration and communication with parents. William Sekabembe, the school’s director, said earlier attempts to solve the issue had not delivered enough improvement. The report said the potential use cases go beyond education to sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, tourism, mining, energy and construction.

The Independent Uganda said satellite internet could help narrow access gaps, but it is not a complete solution on its own. Costs, equipment needs and the practicality of the technology will likely shape how widely it is adopted.