MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda, including other telecom operators, are in the spotlight over data depletions, unstable network connectivity and expensive communication services in Uganda.

The concerns were discussed in a meeting called by the Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Hon. Sanjay Tanna, together with the State Minister for Trade, Hon. Wilson Mbadi, and the operators on Thursday, November, 5, 2026, at the Ministry’s boardroom along Parliamentary Avenue.

The meeting attended by UCC officials follows complaints from users about the quality, accessibility and affordability of telecommunications services in Uganda.

The meeting highlighted several issues affecting consumers, including unstable network connectivity, the commissioning of MTN and Airtel mobile money dealers, and complaints about airtime and data bundles expiring or being depleted before consumers have fully utilised them.

Minister Tanna challenged the telecommunications operators to address these concerns and improve service delivery, emphasising the need for reliable networks and affordable communication services for Ugandans.

The meeting also raised concerns about the commissioning of mobile money dealers, with a call for operators to ensure that dealers are properly onboarded and accessible to customers.

In attendance were the Head of Legal and Regulatory Affairs, Airtel, while UCC was represented by the Manager, Legal and Compliance, and MTN Uganda was represented by the Manager, Brand and Communications.

The operators committed to submitting a detailed report addressing the issues raised within the next two weeks.

The report is expected to outline the challenges identified and propose measures to improve service delivery.

Additionally, the meeting agreed that other smaller telecommunications operators would be invited to participate in subsequent engagements to ensure that the concerns of all industry players are considered.

The engagement underscores the government’s commitment to protecting consumers, promoting fair competition and ensuring that telecommunications services in Uganda are reliable, accessible and affordable.