In a formal letter dated January 2, 2026, Starlink confirmed that it has activated a service restriction tool to block satellite internet access in Uganda. The company clarified that it does not officially sell, market, or distribute Starlink services within Uganda, and no terminals have been imported or authorized by the UCC.
Starlink explained that prior to the shutdown, some Ugandan users accessed the service through terminals purchased and activated outside Uganda—where Starlink is licensed—and then imported into Uganda without official approval. The company emphasized that such use was in violation of its terms of service and occurred without its involvement or consent. As a result, following the enforcement action, no active Starlink terminals remain operational in Uganda.
This service suspension follows a December 19, 2025 directive from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), which restricted the importation and customs clearance of Starlink equipment. Under the new regulations, all Starlink devices entering Uganda now require clearance from the Chief of Defence Forces, effectively placing satellite internet hardware under military oversight.
The timing of this crackdown, just weeks before Uganda’s January 15 elections, has drawn attention to the regulation of satellite-based internet services, which operate independently of the country’s terrestrial fiber and mobile networks. Observers suggest that such services can influence information dissemination during politically sensitive periods, raising regulatory concerns.
Starlink expressed its willingness to collaborate with Ugandan authorities, stating, “Starlink is committed to cooperating with the UCC’s regulatory requirements as we work to complete the licensing process in Uganda.” Until licensing is secured, Uganda remains fully blocked from accessing Starlink’s satellite internet services.
