Airtel Uganda, a leading telecommunication company in Uganda, has handed over UGX 42.9 billion to the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF), reinforcing its commitment to expanding digital connectivity across Uganda.
The contribution represents 2% of Airtel Uganda’s gross annual revenue for the financial year ending 31st December 2025, in full compliance with the Communications Act and the terms of the company’s national telecommunications license.
This year’s contribution marks an increase from last year, when the telecom company contributed over UGX 37.9 billion toward the same initiative.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) headquarters, Airtel Uganda’s CEO and Managing Director, Soumendra Sahu, reaffirmed the company’s shared vision with UCC to bridge the digital divide and drive inclusive growth through improved communication services.
“Airtel’s contribution goes beyond compliance with our license obligations. It is a deliberate and strategic investment in Uganda’s digital future, a future where every Ugandan, whether in Kampala or Karamoja, has access to safe, fast, reliable, and affordable communication services. We are proud to stand with UCC in making that future a reality.”
He added, “This year’s increased contribution is a result of our stable and growing business in Uganda. It reflects the trust that Ugandans place in us every single day, which has enabled us to contribute more toward this important cause. We remain committed to doing even more in the years ahead, further cementing our multi-year commitment to driving digital inclusion through sustained investment in ICT infrastructure across Uganda.”
According to Airtel, the company added 258 new 4G sites and expanded its 5G network to 364 sites across major cities and towns, including Kampala, Wakiso, Jinja, Mbale, Mityana, Masaka, Lira, Fort Portal, Gulu, and Mbarara.
“We have been able to deliver on this commitment because of the loyalty of our esteemed customers, and the support of the Government of Uganda, UCC, and our various stakeholders and partners. We are deeply grateful for this support,” Soumendra noted.
The handover was welcomed by the Uganda Communications Commission, whose Executive Director, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, highlighted the significance of the contribution in the context of Uganda’s broader digital inclusion agenda.
“The 42.9 billion from Airtel is more than just a cheque; it is a testament to the growth and strength of Uganda’s telecom sector and its commitment to national development. This support will help expand communication services to underserved communities, strengthen ICT education, and drive digital inclusion across the country,” Nyombi noted.
Hon. Nyombi also revealed new developments within the telecommunications sector, including the piloting of Direct-to-Cell satellite services in Uganda by Airtel Uganda.
“About 14 days ago, we approved a pilot project being undertaken by Airtel Uganda to operationalise what we call Direct-to-Cell satellite services. The company is currently piloting the technology in Murchison Falls National Park and other underserved areas, which is a significant milestone for the country,” he said.
According to Mr Nyombi, the successful rollout of the technology could position Uganda among the first countries in Africa to launch satellite-to-smartphone connectivity services.
“If everything goes according to plan, Uganda could become one of the first countries in Africa to commercially launch Direct-to-Cell satellite services. This is very exciting for us, and we are confident that it will happen,” he added.
The Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF) is a government-backed initiative managed by UCC to support the development of communication services in unserved and underserved areas. Funds are deployed to extend broadband and voice coverage to rural communities, facilitate ICT access in schools and health centres, and promote nationwide digital inclusion.
“At Airtel, we continue to make significant strides through strategic partnerships that will not only expand network coverage across Uganda but also enhance seamless connectivity for our customers. Our partnership with Starlink is now a reality, and we have entered the testing phase of the Direct-to-Cell system, which we believe will be a game changer for communication in Uganda,” Soumendra concluded.