The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the communications sector in Uganda. Owned by the government but operating independently, the UCC’s responsibilities encompass licensing, regulation, development of communications infrastructure, and expansion of rural communications services.
Location
UCC’s headquarters are situated at 42-44 Spring Road, Bugoloobi, within the Nakawa Division of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city. Additionally, the commission maintains regional offices in key cities including Gulu, Mbale, Masindi, and Mbarara.
Historical Background
The UCC was established following the enactment of the Communications Act by the Ugandan Parliament in 1997. This legislation also led to the division of the former Uganda Posts and Telecommunications Company Limited (UPTCL) into four distinct entities:
- Uganda Communications Commission (UCC): Regulatory body for the communications industry.
- Uganda Post Limited (Posta Uganda): Postal services provider.
- PostBank Uganda: Government-owned financial institution.
- Uganda Telecom: IT and communications network company.
One significant action by the UCC was in January 2021 when it ordered an internet shutdown in Uganda during the elections, highlighting its critical role in national security and communication regulation.
Organization and Operations
The UCC’s structure and operations are detailed on its website, emphasizing transparency and accessibility. The commission also organizes a film festival to support the national film industry, demonstrating its commitment to promoting cultural initiatives alongside its regulatory functions.
Rural Communications
The Rural Communications Development Fund (RCDF), established in 2003, focuses on enhancing communications infrastructure outside urban centers across Uganda’s 112 districts. The RCDF’s initiatives include:
- Establishing internet points of presence.
- Setting up internet training centers and cafes at district headquarters.
- Creating web portals for each district.
- Ensuring the availability of pay telephones.
- Supporting postal projects, community telecentres, and internet development for educational and healthcare facilities.
Governance
The UCC is governed by a seven-member board, chaired by Eng Dr. Dorothy Okello. The board’s composition reflects a blend of expertise from various sectors, contributing to the UCC’s strategic governance. As of November 2023, George William Nyombi Thembo serves as the executive director, following his appointment to replace Irene Sewankambo, who had been the acting director.
Initiatives
The Uganda Film Festival, started in 2013, is a noteworthy initiative aimed at nurturing the local film industry. This annual five-day event includes workshops, trainings, film screenings, and outreach projects, culminating in the Uganda Film Festival Awards.
Overall, the UCC plays a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s communications landscape, balancing regulatory duties with support for rural development and cultural promotion.
