UCC opens applications for eight FM frequencies in underserved areas

What the report says

The Uganda Communications Commission has opened applications for eight FM radio frequencies in parts of Uganda it says remain underserved by broadcasting services. According to the Nile Post report, the available frequencies are in Maracha, Gulu, Kitgum, Abim, Kaabong, Kotido, Hoima and Kisoro, with one slot in each location.

UCC said the move is meant to widen access to radio, encourage local content and improve community engagement. The commission will assess applications competitively, and only the strongest proposal for each location will be considered for reservation. Applicants must be eligible under Uganda’s communications law and show technical, financial and operational capacity to run a station.

The regulator also set several conditions for would-be operators. These include submitting a service proposal, proof of financial resources, a programming and compliance plan, and technical details such as transmission setup and coverage projections. Existing broadcasters with authorisations in the same areas are not eligible. Successful applicants will first receive a provisional spectrum reservation, then have 60 days to secure the necessary licence and spectrum authorisation.

UCC said stations must begin operating within 12 months of assignment and remain within the authorised area. The commission set September 15, 2026, as the application deadline. In general, spectrum allocation drives are often used by regulators to improve media reach and support local information access in less-covered regions, though the specific impact will depend on who wins the licences and how quickly they launch service.