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By Mulengera Reporters
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has warned operators running commercial Wi-Fi hotspots without regulatory authorisation to cease the practice, saying the resale of internet services is subject to telecommunications regulations.
Ibrahim Bbosa, the commission’s Head of Public and International Relations, said individuals who purchase internet bundles for personal or business use and subsequently sell connectivity to other people may be operating as service providers without the required authorisation.
Speaking in a video interview, Bbosa clarified that sharing an internet connection is not prohibited, but charging customers for access changes the nature of the activity.
“Sharing internet is not a problem,” he said, citing smartphone tethering and Wi-Fi access provided to customers by small businesses as examples of acceptable internet sharing.
However, he said individuals who install routers and begin charging other users for connectivity must comply with the applicable regulatory requirements.
Bbosa cited the Uganda Communications Act as the principal law governing the communications sector, saying it empowers UCC to regulate telecommunications services and enforce standards.
He referred to Section 22 of the Act in explaining the authorisation requirements for telecommunications services and equipment, and Section 78 regarding penalties for violations.
Under the process outlined by Bbosa, prospective operators must apply to UCC, providing details about their proposed services, target locations and business plans. The commission then assesses the applications, including the availability of the necessary telecommunications resources.
The warning comes amid UCC’s crackdown on unauthorised Wi-Fi hotspot operators. On October 13, 2026, Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo announced that operators had seven days to voluntarily remove their routers and related equipment or risk seizure and destruction.
The commission has since indicated that it is reviewing its enforcement actions following complaints and letters from hotspot and Wi-Fi providers. A further public notice was expected before the end of the week.
The developments have raised questions about how the regulations apply to small businesses and individuals who provide affordable internet access in their communities.
Bbosa maintained that the requirement for authorisation is intended to ensure that commercial operators meet applicable technical, security and consumer-protection standards.
He urged prospective internet service providers to seek guidance from UCC before starting commercial operations.
The commission’s review is expected to provide further clarity on enforcement and compliance requirements for affected operators. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
