This is a best prospect industry sector for this country. Includes a market overview and trade data.
Last Published: 7/21/2019

 

Overview

Private companies play a lead role in developing Uganda’s ICT infrastructure, often in partnership with the government.  Google (through its C-Squared entity) has laid over 1,000 KM (621 miles) of fiber optic cable in the Kampala metro area since 2015.  Facebook (through its partnership with Airtel Uganda) has laid over 800 KM of fiber optic cable throughout Uganda, primarily in the northern town of Gulu.  Multiple wholesale internet providers provide access through fiber optic cables into Uganda.  From 2017 to 2019, the cost of commercial internet (25 Mbps+/mo) service has dropped from $300 to $80.  The 2018 Excise Duty Amendment imposed a $0.05 daily tax on social media usage, however, the tax has not had a significant impact on internet usage.   

Leading Sub-Sectors

Data Centers and Content Delivery Nodes:  Growth in Uganda’s internet availability has pushed up demand for local data services, data security, and streamlined content delivery, including tier-rated data centers (currently zero in Uganda), content partnerships, and data security expertise.
Complimentary Technologies:  Due to increased access in all regions throughout Uganda, the use of complimentary technologies is growing .  This includes the use of Internet of Things devices and services and industrial internet-connected devices.  Internet-connected devices and services supporting the agriculture sector  have particularly significant growth potential in Uganda.

Opportunities

Exporting telecommunication hardware offers the best prospects within the sector.  The following products are in high demand in Uganda:  cellular and wireless telephone systems, data transmission equipment, fiber optic equipment, trunked mobile phone systems, switches and routers, wireless access equipment, voice over internet telephone, VSAT, computers and peripherals.

Web Resources

Uganda Communications Commission

 

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