Ugandans Demand Answers as Government Gives Telecoms 14 Days Over Disappearing Data

What the report says

Ugandan telecom customers are pressing for answers over complaints that data bundles disappear quickly, internet connections are unreliable, and customer support is poor. According to Nile Post, subscribers say they are not getting value for money from mobile internet packages, with some alleging that bundles bought for thousands of shillings are used up in a very short time. The concerns also include claims that some “unlimited” offers do not match the experience users encounter in practice.

The article quotes several users describing different frustrations. Juliet Nambalirwa questions the credibility of unlimited internet offers and says Wi-Fi service is inconsistent. Muzaham Baguma says his bundles run out unusually fast and that calling customer care often leads to promotional adverts rather than help. Amanyire Maureen says even a low-cost bundle does not guarantee smooth service, while Bashir Lutaaya says a bundle expired almost immediately after he bought it for urgent business.

The complaints have now reached government. The report says Trade Minister Sanjay Tanna and State Minister Wilson Mbadi met with representatives of major telecommunications companies on November 5 to discuss service delivery concerns. Operators were given two weeks to submit a detailed report explaining the complaints and setting out steps to improve network performance, customer service and complaints handling. Smaller operators are also expected to be involved in later discussions. The issue matters because internet access is central to work, communication and daily business in Uganda, making service quality and billing transparency a growing consumer issue.