Museveni Supports Elon Musk’s Starlink to Boost Internet in Rural Uganda

President Yoweri Museveni has welcomed Elon Musk’s Starlink project to Uganda, saying it could help bring fast and cheap internet to people living in remote and rural parts of the country.

Museveni met with Starlink representatives Ben MacWilliams and Brandi Oliver at State House Nakasero, alongside Ambassador Adonia Ayebare and Ambassador Popp. After the meeting, he posted on his official X account: “I welcome Starlink to Uganda. I appreciate their offer to bring low-cost internet to hard-to-reach areas and open operations in Uganda.”

Uganda has low internet access, with only about 27% of the population connected. The government hopes Starlink’s satellite internet technology will help close this gap and support digital growth across the country.

Former Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) Chairman Morrison Rwakakamba praised the President’s move, calling it a big step toward Uganda’s technology goals. “This is powerful. It supports Uganda Vision 2030 and our development plans,” he said.

Also read: Elon Musk's Starlink Applies for Internet License in Uganda

Rwakakamba also pointed out how the Starlink partnership could improve many sectors:

• Education: More students could access online learning and digital skills.

• Business: Small businesses, which make up over 80% of Uganda’s economy, could explore e-commerce and new markets.

• Healthcare: Telemedicine would allow doctors in remote areas to get help from international specialists.

• Disaster response: In case of floods or mudslides, Starlink could keep communication systems running when usual networks are down.

Starlink has already launched in Nigeria, Kenya, and Rwanda, and Uganda may be the next. With government support and progress toward policy and regulatory approval, Starlink’s entry could transform internet access across Uganda’s diverse geography.

The partnership is expected to improve digital inclusion and help Uganda take a big leap forward in technology and development.