Uganda Plans 50% Internet Cost Reduction by January 2025

The Ugandan government has announced an initiative to halve internet costs starting January 2025. Moses Watasa, the Commissioner for Information and Communication in the Ministry of ICT, made the announcement during the conclusion of Phase One of the Innovation and Growth Acceleration Program held in Kampala, organized by Youth Startup Academy Uganda.

Watasa highlighted that this initiative aims to improve internet affordability and accessibility, particularly for low-income households and small businesses. The government is focused on reducing the digital divide by expanding fiber connectivity and ensuring that more citizens can access reliable internet services.

“By the end of January next year, you’ll notice a significant drop in internet prices,” Watasa stated, emphasizing the government’s dedication to this goal.

The Ministry of ICT is also implementing policies to make technology more beneficial to youth by enhancing internet access. These measures are part of the government’s broader effort to foster innovation and empower young people in Uganda’s evolving tech industry.

Acknowledging international support, Watasa expressed appreciation to the South Korean government for its assistance in Uganda’s digital transformation efforts and ICT development projects. He stressed the critical role young Ugandans play in driving the nation’s digital progress and their potential to shape the future of technology.

This initiative comes as Uganda faces challenges with high internet costs, ranking among the most expensive in East Africa. On average, 1GB of mobile data costs approximately Ugx5,000. According to Cable.co.uk, Uganda ranks 103rd out of 237 countries globally for internet affordability.

In comparison, neighboring countries such as Somalia (45th), Rwanda (52nd), and Kenya (57th) offer significantly more affordable internet. Other regional rankings include the Democratic Republic of Congo at 68th, Tanzania at 84th, and Burundi at 102nd, just ahead of Uganda. South Sudan ranks near the bottom at 234th.

The government’s effort to lower internet costs is a crucial step toward making digital access a reality for more Ugandans and positioning the country for greater participation in the global digital economy.