By Mulengera Reporters
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has received a major financial injection into its digital development efforts, following the payment of UGX 37.9 billion by Airtel Uganda as part of its statutory 2% levy on annual gross revenue.
The contribution is part of the telecom operator’s licensing obligations under UCC regulations.
The fund, which supports the Commission’s Universal Service and Access Fund (USAF), is critical to the rollout of ICT infrastructure and services to underserved and marginalized communities in Uganda.
Receiving the contribution, UCC Executive Director (ED) Hon. Nyombi Thembo commended Airtel Uganda for its timely compliance and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to using such resources to promote inclusive digital access.
Nyombi said the funds are already powering strategic interventions, including the expansion of ICT infrastructure in underserved areas, integration of technology into education and agriculture, support for digital inclusion of persons with disabilities, promotion of digital skills, and distribution of smart devices to marginalized people
He noted that UCC continues to prioritize equitable access to ICT services, in line with Uganda’s national development plans and the Digital Uganda Vision.
The contribution was officially announced by Airtel Uganda Managing Director Mr. Soumendra Sahu, who credited the company’s ability to meet its obligations to loyal customers, government support, and collaboration with development partners.
“We’re proud to fulfil this mandate, which aligns with our shared goal of deepening digital access. The support of our customers and the guidance of UCC have been key in making this possible,” Sahu said.
The Airtel Boss echoed UCC’s call for more investment in digital literacy and smartphone penetration, noting that access to technology must be matched with the ability to use it meaningfully.
He said that as infrastructure grows, there is need to ensure that digital skills grow with it, so that technology can truly transform lives.
The UCC’s stewardship of the sector levy has been widely commended for transparency and impact. Over the past few years, the Commission has used these funds to connect rural schools and health centres to the internet, support teacher training in ICT, and equip local communities with the tools and knowledge to thrive in a digital world.
The payment represents one of the largest such contributions by a licensed operator this year, and underlines the importance of public-private collaboration in accelerating Uganda’s digital transformation.
Under the leadership of Nyombi, UCC has placed strong emphasis on ensuring no Ugandan is left behind, whether due to geography, income, gender, or disability. The Commission continues to work with telecom operators, local governments, civil society, and the private sector to extend digital opportunities to all corners of the country. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
