President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has given a warm welcome to Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
This follows his meeting with company representatives at State Lodge, Nakasero, on Monday, April 28, 2025.
The discussions, facilitated by Ambassador Adonia Ayebare and U.S. Ambassador William W. Popp, focused on expanding affordable internet access to Uganda’s remote and underserved areas, a move seen as a significant step toward bridging the country’s digital divide.
In a post on X, President Museveni expressed his appreciation for Starlink’s commitment, stating, “I had a productive meeting with Starlink representatives, Ben MacWilliams and Brandi Oliver… I appreciate their commitment to providing low-cost internet in hard-to-reach areas and establishing a presence in Uganda. They are welcome.”
The meeting comes as part of Uganda’s broader efforts to enhance digital infrastructure and position itself as a technology hub in East Africa.
Starlink’s satellite-based internet service aims to deliver high-speed connectivity to regions where traditional fiber optic or mobile networks are limited or nonexistent.
This initiative aligns with President Museveni’s vision of fostering socio-economic transformation through improved access to information and communication technologies (ICT).
Ben MacWilliams, Starlink’s Global Licensing and Activation Director, and Brandi Oliver, a key representative, outlined the company’s plans to establish local operations in Uganda.
Starlink intends to collaborate with local businesses and government programs in Uganda to ensure affordability and accessibility, particularly in rural communities.
The company’s entry into Uganda follows its recent expansions in other African nations, including Botswana, where it has already connected thousands of users and established gateway stations.
The announcement has sparked optimism among Ugandans, with many taking to X to praise the potential impact of Starlink’s services.
One user remarked, “President Museveni’s engagement with the Starlink team marks a promising step toward bridging Uganda’s digital divide. Embracing satellite internet has the potential to transform rural connectivity, enhance education, health services, and boost innovation across the country.”
Another post highlighted the transformative potential, stating, “Starlink’s efforts to bring affordable internet to remote areas will make a huge difference in Uganda.”
Uganda’s ICT sector has been a priority for President Museveni, who emphasized the importance of regional markets and technological advancement during a recent meeting with a U.S. delegation in January 2025.
“In Uganda, we are now moving on the four sectors of commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services, and ICT,” he said, underscoring the need for a robust digital infrastructure to support economic growth.
Starlink’s planned launch in Uganda, first announced in August 2024, is expected to complement existing internet providers rather than displace them.
The service’s ability to deliver broadband to remote areas has been praised globally, and its arrival in Uganda could support initiatives like digital education, telemedicine, and e-commerce, particularly in regions with limited connectivity.
As Uganda prepares to host Starlink’s operations, the government and private sector stakeholders are anticipated to work closely with the company to ensure a smooth rollout.
While no official timeline for the service launch was provided, the positive tone of the meeting suggests that Uganda is on the cusp of a digital transformation that could reshape access to information and opportunities for millions.