Satellite internet provider Starlink has disabled access to its global network in Uganda, effectively rendering all Starlink terminals in the country inactive as of 1 January 2026, following a directive from the Uganda Communications Commission UCC regarding unlicensed satellite service operations.
In a letter dated 2 January 2026, Starlink confirmed that it had activated a service restriction tool to prevent any satellite internet access within Uganda. The letter, signed by Ben MacWilliams, Director of Market Access at Space Exploration Technologies Corp., was addressed to the UCC's Executive Director and issued in response to concerns over the illegal use of satellite internet services in the country.
Starlink clarified that it does not sell, market, or directly provide satellite internet services in Uganda, and that no Starlink terminals have been officially imported or distributed in the country. "To be clear, Starlink Uganda itself is not selling or marketing satellite internet services in Uganda because it is not yet licensed by the UCC," the company stated.
