Satellite connectivity is unlikely to remove Uganda’s digital access challenges on its own
Kampala, Uganda | ENTEBBENEWS.NET | MTN Uganda has launched a satellite internet service for businesses in remote areas, stepping up competition with rival Airtel Uganda as the country’s telecom operators seek to reach customers beyond the limits of conventional mobile networks and fibre infrastructure.
The service, MTN Starlink for Business, uses low-Earth-orbit satellite technology to connect businesses and institutions in locations where terrestrial networks are limited, unreliable or too costly to extend.
The launch follows Airtel Uganda’s introduction of Starlink satellite-to-mobile services in September, bringing satellite connectivity into sharper focus in a market where geographical barriers and the cost of network deployment have constrained access to reliable internet.
Target markets
The competing services target different segments. Airtel’s satellite-to-mobile offering allows customers with compatible smartphones to access selected messaging and light-data applications directly through satellites, while MTN’s business service uses dedicated equipment to provide internet access for organisations.
The distinction reflects the growing range of uses for satellite technology, from extending basic mobile communications to connecting schools, industrial sites and businesses operating far from established infrastructure.
For Uganda, where economic activity extends well beyond Kampala and other urban centres, reliable connectivity remains an important constraint on the adoption of digital services. Extending fibre networks to sparsely populated areas can require substantial investment, while mobile coverage may be inadequate for organisations whose operations depend on consistent internet access.
MTN demonstrated its new service at Libra International School in Ziroobwe, Luweero District, where connectivity problems had affected teaching, online research, administration and communication with parents.
“At MTN, we believe that where you are located should not determine how far you can go,” said Sylvia Mulinge, chief executive of MTN Uganda.
The service will complement the company’s existing connectivity products, allowing organisations to use satellite internet as their primary connection, as a backup or where conventional infrastructure is unavailable, she said.
William Sekabembe, director of Libra International School, said previous attempts to improve connectivity, including the use of signal boosters, had failed to deliver the required performance despite significant expenditure.
“Ever since we started the proof of concept with Starlink through MTN, it has really been a big milestone for us,” he said, citing improvements in students’ online research, communication with parents and the operation of school management and examination systems.
The potential market extends beyond education to agriculture, healthcare, tourism, mining, energy, construction and humanitarian operations, where businesses and institutions may need to connect remote facilities or mobile teams.
Today, Libra International School was honoured to host MTN Uganda CEO, @sylmulinge , for the launch of the MTN Starlink partnership. This milestone marks an exciting step towards expanding connectivity and creating opportunities for learning, innovation, and digital growth. https://t.co/h7TSBv3ct3
— Libra International School (@LibraIntlschool) October 22, 2026
For companies operating outside established network coverage, satellite internet could provide access to cloud-based applications, digital payments and communication systems without waiting for terrestrial infrastructure to reach their locations. But the commercial case will depend on equipment and subscription costs, installation requirements and the reliability needed for specific operations.
The entry of satellite services into Uganda’s telecoms market also raises the prospect of a more complex competitive landscape. Operators will increasingly need to distinguish their offerings not only by coverage and price, but also by the ability to provide connectivity suited to different customers and operating environments.
MTN’s launch forms part of its Ambition 2030 strategy, which seeks to expand digital solutions across Africa. The company already offers mobile connectivity, fibre internet and managed network services, with satellite technology adding another option for enterprise customers.
Initial investment
Satellite connectivity is unlikely to remove Uganda’s digital access challenges on its own. Affordability, equipment requirements and the suitability of the technology for different locations will influence adoption. But for businesses operating beyond the reach of conventional infrastructure, it offers an alternative to waiting for terrestrial networks to arrive.
The broader commercial opportunity lies in turning that access into productive use, enabling businesses and institutions to operate more efficiently and participate in an economy increasingly dependent on digital services.
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