TowerCo of Africa has announced a plan to construct over 500 new telecommunication towers in rural Uganda to enhance service accessibility. The rural telecom expansion programme, which will be executed over the next two years, is projected to create 2,000 jobs for both skilled and unskilled workers during its implementation.
The $40 million initiative has received financial support from the European Investment Bank and backing from the ACP Trust Fund, which has committed $16 million. The remaining amount will be provided by the development banks of Austria and Belgium, with each contributing $12 million.
The 10-year funding will support the construction of new telecom towers in rural areas lacking in mobile network service or dealing with network congestion.
The investment is a significant step towards bridging Uganda’s digital divide, offering new opportunities in rural regions, and encouraging long-term growth. TowerCo of Africa Uganda noted that the improved telecom infrastructure, primarily powered by renewable energy, would revolutionize access to 4G and 5G internet along with mobile money services, thereby boosting financial inclusion.
Currently, only 65% of Uganda enjoys mobile network coverage. This new investment underscores the need to address coverage issues and will be crucial in reaching the nation’s 95% coverage goal.
The company added that these 506 new structures would be shared by various mobile network operators, tackling difficulties that have previously obstructed telecom expansion in rural regions. A considerable proportion of the towers will be solar-powered, reducing risks related to fuel and generator theft, and in line with TowerCo of Africa Uganda’s commitment to responsible infrastructure development and climate action.
Geoffrey Donnels Oketayot, CEO of TowerCo of Africa Uganda, and Thomas Östros, VP of the European Investment Bank, both commended the initiative for its significant efforts towards bridging the digital divide and positively impacting rural populations.
