Uganda has restored public internet access following the conclusion of its general elections, but key digital services — most notably MTN and Airtel mobile money — remain unavailable, prolonging disruption for millions of users across the country.
On Sunday, the Ugandan Communications Commission (UCC) confirmed that it had directed telecom operators and internet service providers to restore nationwide internet connectivity after nearly five days of shutdown. The restriction had been imposed ahead of the January 15 elections, which the government said was necessary to prevent misinformation and maintain security amid heightened political tensions.
However, while basic internet access has returned, social media platforms, messaging applications, and mobile money services operated by MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda are still restricted, leaving many citizens unable to carry out essential financial transactions.
Partial restoration after election shutdown
In a public announcement, UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo explained that the phased restoration was deliberate. According to him, while general web browsing and access to essential online services have resumed, social media and over-the-top (OTT) messaging platforms remain blocked to “safeguard against misuse that could threaten public order.”
As a result, Ugandans can now access news websites, government portals, educational resources, email services, and some financial platforms. However, popular social networks and messaging apps — often used for political mobilisation — are still inaccessible.
Independent internet monitoring group NetBlocks also confirmed that, despite the restoration of general connectivity, restrictions on several social media and messaging platforms were still in effect as of Sunday.
The internet shutdown came shortly after authorities ordered Elon Musk-owned satellite internet provider Starlink to suspend operations in Uganda over unresolved regulatory issues, further tightening digital access in the days leading up to the election.
Mobile money blackout deepens financial strain
Beyond social media restrictions, the continued suspension of mobile money services has emerged as the most critical issue for many Ugandans. MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money are widely used for everyday transactions, including transport fares, food purchases, bill payments, and emergency expenses.
With both services still offline, users say they are effectively locked out of their funds.
In response to complaints on X (formerly Twitter), MTN Uganda confirmed that mobile money services remain unavailable due to a directive from the authorities. The telecom operator said there is currently “no defined timeline for full restoration,” adding to uncertainty for customers.
Multiple users have also reported that Airtel Money withdrawals remain inaccessible, a situation that has affected both individuals and small businesses that rely heavily on digital payments.
OvetiLabs Tech System, a Ugandan AI and software consultancy, separately confirmed that access to both MTN and Airtel mobile money platforms was still blocked as of Monday.
The prolonged outage has disrupted daily life, particularly for people without access to alternative banking channels. For many, mobile money is the primary — and sometimes only — way to store and transfer funds.
Warnings against VPN usage
As frustration grows, some users have attempted to bypass restrictions using virtual private networks (VPNs). However, the UCC has issued strong warnings against such practices.
Speaking on Sunday, Thembo said the regulator now has the technical capability to detect VPN usage. He warned that users who attempt to bypass government restrictions could face severe consequences, including having their devices permanently disconnected from mobile networks.
“If you bypass these restrictions and use the bypass to break the law, don’t be surprised that we may attack you, and your device may not go on the network again,” he said, urging citizens to exercise caution.
Political backdrop and broader implications
Uganda’s election has once again drawn attention to the government’s use of internet shutdowns during politically sensitive periods. President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner of the election, securing another five-year term and extending his time in power to over four decades. Official results showed Museveni winning 72% of the vote, while opposition candidate Bobi Wine received 25%.
Critics argue that repeated shutdowns undermine economic activity, digital inclusion, and trust in the country’s growing tech ecosystem. Uganda has seen increased adoption of mobile money, digital services, and online businesses in recent years, making prolonged restrictions more economically damaging than in the past.
For now, while internet access has technically returned, the continued unavailability of mobile money services means the digital economy remains only partially functional. Businesses, consumers, and service providers are watching closely for further directives from regulators — and for clarity on when full digital services, including payments and social platforms, will finally be restored.
