Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has broken its silence on an internal memo directing customs officers to restrict the importation and clearance of Billionaire Elon Musk’s Starlink technology and related communication equipment unless accompanied by authorization from the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
The directive, which took immediate effect, sparked widespread public debate and concern, particularly as the country heads toward the 2026 general elections, with sections of the public linking it to fears over information control and communication freedoms.
According to the memo, all import declarations involving Starlink gadgets, communication equipment, and associated components must be accompanied by a clearance letter from the CDF.
“Any import declaration of the aforementioned items should be accompanied by a clearance or authorization letter from the Chief of Defence Forces – Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF). This guidance takes effect immediately, and all staff are expected to adhere to it,” the memo states in part.
In response to the public reaction, URA has come out to clarify the directive, dismissing claims that it represents a new or politically motivated restriction.
Robert Kalumba, the tax body’s Public and Corporate Affairs manager, said the requirement for security clearance for sensitive communication equipment is standard practice globally and should not be misinterpreted.
“There is nothing new about requesting security clearance and government licensing for these entities,” Kalumba said. “It’s not only Uganda that asks for security clearance. It’s a worldwide practice done by many countries. So let’s not create a storm in a teacup.”
He explained that the importation of controlled or sensitive communication technologies is internationally regulated through licensing regimes, product-specific certifications, and security vetting by customs authorities and specialised government agencies.
Kalumba added that such measures are designed to safeguard national security by preventing advanced communication technologies from being misused or falling into the wrong hands.
URA further cited international precedents, noting that even developed countries apply similar controls. In Europe, for instance, Italy has faced prolonged debate over adopting Starlink for government and military use.
While early discussions reportedly received defence and intelligence approval, the process stalled over national security concerns, political controversy surrounding Starlink owner Elon Musk, and pressure to prioritise sovereign European alternatives such as the IRIS² satellite system.
According to URA, countries including India, Pakistan, South Africa, Senegal, Vietnam, and the Democratic Republic of Congo require security clearance before the rollout or importation of Starlink services and equipment.
URA officials insist Uganda’s approach mirrors these international practices, emphasising that Starlink technology is already subject to licensing and security approval in many jurisdictions where it operates.
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