KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda has imposed immediate restrictions on the importation of Starlink satellite internet equipment, requiring importers to obtain special clearance from the country’s military leadership, a move that has sparked fresh concerns over digital freedoms ahead of next month’s general election.
In a memorandum dated December 19, 2025, the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) instructed all customs staff to restrict the importation and clearance of Starlink technology, communication equipment, and related components.
The directive states that any import declaration must now be accompanied by a clearance or authorisation letter from the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).
The memo, referenced CUS/CCD/9.5.2 and signed by Asadu Kigozi Kisitu, formally takes effect immediately and applies to all customs entry points across the country.
Journalist Larry Madowo said the new requirement effectively means Ugandans must seek written permission from Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces and son of President Yoweri Museveni, to import Starlink equipment.
“The ban comes just 24 days before January’s general election,” Madowo said, noting that Uganda shut down the internet during the 2021 polls, drawing international condemnation.
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has become an increasingly important connectivity option across parts of Africa, particularly in areas with limited or unreliable terrestrial internet infrastructure.
The restriction is expected to affect businesses, civil society groups, and individuals seeking alternative broadband access during the election period.
The timing of the move has raised alarms among rights groups and political observers, who view it within the broader context of Uganda’s history of election-related internet disruptions.
During the 2021 general election, authorities ordered a nationwide internet shutdown, citing security concerns, a decision widely criticised as an infringement on freedom of expression and access to information.
Gen. Muhoozi, who now controls authorisation for the restricted imports in his capacity as military chief, is also a central political figure in Uganda.
He is widely viewed as a potential successor to President Museveni, who has ruled the country since 1986. His wife currently serves as Uganda’s Minister for Education.
The government has not publicly explained why Starlink equipment has been categorised alongside restricted communication technology, nor why military authorisation is now required. However, Ugandan authorities have previously argued that unregulated communication tools pose national security risks, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
Digital rights advocates say the restriction undermines access to independent communication channels at a critical democratic moment.
“This is a worrying escalation,” said one Kampala-based governance analyst. “Restricting satellite internet access just weeks before an election fits a long-standing pattern of controlling information flows when political competition intensifies.”
As Uganda heads into the January polls, the Starlink restriction adds to growing scrutiny of the country’s electoral environment, with observers closely watching whether authorities will again resort to broader internet controls on voting day.
