Internet returns to Uganda but MTN and Airtel mobile money remain unavailable

Following the conclusion of its general elections, the Ugandan Communications Commission (UCC) announced on Sunday the restoration of public internet access nationwide. However, access to social media and internet connectivity for applications remains restricted.

Recall that the Ugandan government, on Tuesday, imposed a nationwide internet shutdown before its January 15 general elections, citing security reasons. The UCC’s Executive Director, Mr Nyombi Thembo, noted that the decision was intended to prevent misinformation and maintain security amid rising political tensions leading up to the election.

The internet shutdown also comes days after the Elon Musk-owned satellite internet provider, Starlink, was directed to shut down activities due to regulatory issues. 

While Ugandans went almost 5 days without internet access, the Communications Regulator introduced a relief to the internet shutdown, leaving core internet access restricted. Amid this, MTN and Airtel Uganda’s mobile money remains unavailable, leaving subscribers financially stranded. 

In a public announcement on Sunday, via a local television station, Thembo noted that the restriction was implemented to ensure that the electoral process proceeded peacefully. He noted that this is to ensure the peace of Ugandans and the entire nation.

While social media remains inaccessible, other ‘essentials’ such as web browsing, access to news websites, educational resources, government portals, financial services, and email were restored.

“In line with the directive issued to all licensed mobile network operators and internet service providers, social media platforms, and messaging over-the-top, or if you may, OTT applications remain temporarily restricted to continue safeguarding against misuse that could threaten public order,” he said.

NetBlocks, an internet observatory platform, also confirmed on Sunday that its live metrics showed that multiple social media and messaging platforms remain restricted by the Ugandan authorities despite the conclusion of its election.

Also Read: Election: Uganda shuts down internet until further notice.

Ugandans face financial distress 

While the internet shutdown was met with serious criticism, many were still in hope of full restoration hours after the declaration of the election result. However, citizens are still unable to perform daily activities that rely on internet access.

Access to MTN and Airtel mobile money services in the country is still restricted, causing significant financial distress and the inability to meet daily needs for users. This has led to frustration and increasing outrage.

In response to an X (formerly Twitter) post on Monday, where a user claimed many MTN Uganda mobile money users are struggling to meet basic needs due to the ongoing internet lockdown, MTN noted that the withdrawal challenge is per the authorities’ directive.

“That is unfortunate,” it said, confirming that “Mobile Money restrictions are still in place as per UCC directive.” The telecoms operator added that “there is no defined timeline for full restoration at the moment,” further placing uncertainty on when users will gain access to their funds. 

Also, X user @kyazze12315 noted that “we can not access Airtel Ug and MTN Ug withdrawals.”

In another confirmation on Monday, OvetiLabs Tech System, an AI and software consultancy company in Uganda, told Technext that access to MTN and Airtel mobile money remains inaccessible. 

With crucial financial activities remaining inaccessible, users face disruption to daily life activities such as food and transport, and the inability to meet up with emergencies (if any arise).

Warning against VPN usage

While connections to VPN are seen as preferred ways to access mobile money, financial activities or connect to social media platforms, the UCC has raised warnings over their usage.

While speaking on Sunday, Thembo said that the UCC now has the capacity to detect VPN users. He explained that while VPN users break the law by bypassing regulations, the agency can also attack their devices to permanently cut off their internet connectivity features. 

“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. So be cautious,” the UCC Boss said. 

He also stated, “We don’t want to do this without warning you.”

Ugandan President Yoweri Museve was declared the winner of Thursday’s election, extending his four decades in power by another five years. He gained 72% of the vote, against Bobi Wine’s 25%. 

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