MTN Uganda has made its largest-ever contribution to the Uganda Communications Commission’s Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF), committing $13.3 million (UGX 50.55 billion) to expand digital connectivity in underserved communities nationwide.
Announced by CEO Sylvia Mulinge during a stakeholder meeting at the UCC headquarters in Kampala, the contribution highlights MTN’s growing investment in bridging Uganda’s digital divide and supporting national ICT development. The amount reflects a steady year-on-year increase, rising from $11.59 million in 2024 and $9.81 million in 2023.
“We believe that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life,” Mulinge said. “This contribution is part of our broader strategy to transform Uganda into a fully digital economy—not only through infrastructure but also by enabling affordability, access, and digital skills.”
Under Ugandan law, telecom operators must contribute 2% of their annual gross revenues to UCUSAF, which funds projects in remote and marginalized regions. Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the UCC, commended MTN for meeting its obligation consistently and with genuine commitment.
The announcement comes amid concerns about Uganda’s relatively low smartphone penetration, which stood at 35.6% of its 51 million mobile subscribers by the end of 2024—far below Kenya’s 72% and South Africa’s 90%. In response, MTN Uganda has introduced initiatives such as the M-Kabode Supa smartphone financing program, helping to boost smartphone use on its network from 39.1% to 44.9% over the past year.
MTN is also investing in digital literacy, having launched 63 ICT labs in schools and operating the MTN Internet Bus to provide digital training in rural communities.
Source: IT Web
Culled by: Extensia.tech
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