UCC Begins Review of TV License Fees, Opens Market to New Signal Distributors

By Mulengera Reporters

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced plans to review television license fees and opened the door for additional free-to-air signal distributors, in a move aimed at addressing concerns raised by television operators and improving the quality and reliability of broadcasting services in Uganda.

The developments were announced by UCC Director of Legal Affairs, Susan M. Atengo Wegoye, who delivered remarks on behalf of the Commission’s Executive Director during ongoing stakeholder engagements with television operators.

Ms. Atengo Wegoye reminded broadcasters of the important role television plays in Ugandan society, particularly in informing, educating and entertaining the public. She said the influence enjoyed by television operators also comes with a responsibility to operate in the public interest, protect children from harmful content and comply with the country’s laws and broadcasting regulations.

“Television operators have a critical role in informing, educating and entertaining Ugandans,” Ms. Atengo Wegoye said, emphasizing that this role must be matched by responsible broadcasting practices.

The discussions also addressed long-standing concerns from television operators over the cost of licenses. Responding to complaints about high license fees, Ms. Atengo Wegoye said the Commission has already initiated a study to review the existing fee structure.

She said the review will be followed by open consultations with stakeholders, giving television operators and other industry players an opportunity to present their views on the current fees and proposed changes. The consultations are expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to contribute to a fee structure that responds to industry realities while supporting regulatory oversight.

Another key issue discussed was the distribution of free-to-air television signals. The UCC confirmed that SIGNET no longer has exclusivity as the country’s free-to-air signal distributor.

According to the Commission, the change creates room for new players to enter the signal distribution market. UCC said it is prepared to license additional distributors in an effort to improve service delivery, reliability and competition within the broadcasting sector.

The announcement comes as the regulator continues engagements with television operators on ways to strengthen standards across the industry. The meetings are focusing on emerging challenges facing broadcasters, compliance with established broadcasting guidelines and adherence to broader regulatory requirements.

The stakeholder engagements are also intended to promote constructive dialogue between the regulator and industry players. Rather than relying solely on enforcement, the discussions provide an opportunity for broadcasters to raise concerns, seek clarification on regulatory requirements and explore practical solutions to challenges affecting their operations.

The UCC has emphasized the importance of professionalism and compliance as the broadcasting industry evolves. Broadcasters are expected to maintain standards that protect audiences while ensuring that television remains a reliable source of information, education and entertainment.

For television operators, the review of license fees and the opening of the signal distribution market could provide significant changes to the operating environment. However, the Commission has made clear that any improvements in market conditions must go hand in hand with responsible broadcasting and compliance with the law.

The ongoing consultations therefore mark an important stage in efforts to address concerns within Uganda’s television industry while strengthening regulatory standards and promoting sustainable broadcasting practices.

As engagements continue, stakeholders are expected to contribute proposals on licensing, signal distribution, industry standards, content regulation and other emerging issues. The UCC says continued dialogue with broadcasters will be critical to finding practical solutions that support a more professional, competitive and sustainable broadcasting sector. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).