Starlink Secures Provisional License in Uganda for Satellite Service

Starlink, a satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, has been granted a provisional satellite license by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). This marks a significant advancement in the company's efforts to establish satellite operations in East Africa, reflecting a broader shift in regulatory approaches towards low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband connectivity across the continent.

The UCC has not yet disclosed the timeline for full licensing or specific conditions attached to the provisional approval. Simultaneously, Airtel Uganda has begun testing Starlink's direct-to-cell (D2C) service, which enables standard mobile handsets to connect directly to satellites without the need for specialized equipment.

This development aims to significantly expand connectivity in areas where terrestrial network infrastructure is limited, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Uganda joins a growing list of African markets where Starlink is seeking regulatory approval, as internet penetration remains a challenge outside major urban centers.