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Uganda has implemented an immediate ban on the import of Starlink satellite internet devices and associated communication technology.

The procedure will now necessitate written approval from the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Kaguta Museveni, prior to customs clearance being provided.

The action takes place fewer than 25 days ahead of the general election set for January 15, 2026, sparking worries regarding access to independent messaging during a highly sensitive political time.

A memo dated December 19, 2025, issued by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) Customs Control Department instructed all customs personnel to stop processing the release of Starlink technology devices, communication tools, or related parts unless they have a clearance or authorization letter from the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).

“This message is intended to formally inform employees of the immediate ban on importing and clearing Starlink technology devices, communication gear, and related parts through customs,” the memo states in part.

Any importation of the mentioned items must be supported by a clearance or authorization letter from the Chief of Defence Forces – Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF). This instruction is effective immediately, and all personnel are required to follow it.

According to the order, all imports entering the country from every point must now be examined and approved by General Muhoozi.

The regulation essentially transfers the authority to import Starlink devices to military approval.

The URA document did not disclose the grounds for the limitation.

Satellite-based internet services can circumvent traditional national communication networks, leading to concerns regarding frequency allocation, security regulation, and adherence to legal standards.

Starlink is an internet service provided by SpaceX, which utilizes a network of satellites in low-Earth orbit to offer high-speed internet access without depending on ground-based systems.

It has drawn attention throughout Africa due to its ability to enhance fast internet connectivity in remote and underdeveloped regions.

The initial satellites were deployed in 2019.

By October 2025, the service had expanded to more than 150 countries worldwide, including 23 African countries, with additional growth planned.

The limitation follows several months after President Museveni met with Starlink representatives to discuss the company’s plan to enter Uganda’s telecommunications sector.

At that meeting, Museveni showed interest in Starlink’s capability to deliver cost-effective, fast internet access to remote and underdeveloped regions.

He characterized the technology as a possible remedy for ongoing connectivity issues in rural Uganda.

“I value their dedication to offering affordable internet in remote regions and setting up operations in Uganda. They are welcome,” he stated in a message on X.

The instruction also comes amid Uganda’s past instances of internet restrictions during elections.

In 2021, the government shut down internet access during the general election, with authorities stating that the action was intended to prevent the spread of false and misleading information.

Currently, importers of Starlink and other satellite communication devices need to obtain military authorization before their products can be cleared through customs, introducing an additional level of regulatory scrutiny just weeks before nationwide voting.