FULL LIST: UCC to switch off 30 FM radio stations

KAMPALA – The Uganda Communications Commissions (UCC) has released a list of 30 radio stations on the verge of being switched off over failure to renew broadcasting licences.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, UCC said the affected radio stations, “despite several reminders, including the public notice issued on 31st December 2020, they have to date not submitted their applications for licenses in accordance with the Uganda Communications Act 2013.”

The broadcasting licenses of the affected radio broadcasters expired on June 30, 2020, according to UCC.

These radio stations include Home FM in Kabale, AA City Radio in Arua, Saviour FM in Amuria, Biiso FM in Buliisa, Marantha FM in Jinja, Crane FM in Bushenyi, Q FM in Lira, East Africa Radio in Kampala, Radio North in Lira, Gulu FM, Enduhba FM in Kamuli, Radio Kinkizi, Kitty FM in Kitgum, Kwania FM in Apac, Kyegegwa Community Radio, Kanungu FM, Radio Kitara, Mbabule FM in Sembabule, and Village Club California in Kiryandongo.

Others on the list are Elgon FM in Mbale, Choice FM in Gulu, Radio Kaaro in Kiruhura, Radio Revival in Mbarara, Radio Veros in Tororo, Sauti FM in Kayunga, Tembo FM in Kitgum, Radio Ssese in Kalangala, Palwak Radio in Pader, Unique FM in Kyenjojo and Challenge FM in Pallisa.

“The listed radio stations are accordingly reminded that unless they regularize their operations by clearing all outstanding compliance issues and submit complete applications for their respective radio frequencies by Wednesday, April 14, 2021, their respective radio spectrum assignments shall automatically lapse and they shall be required to stop broadcasting,” UCC noted.

“The proprietors of the subject radio stations are further reminded that in accordance with sections 26 and 27 of the Uganda Communications Act 2013, any person who provides broadcasting services in Uganda without a license issued by the Commission commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine or imprisonment or both.”