MTN and Airtel lose $7 million in Uganda as social media access is finally restored

Mobile network operators, MTN and Airtel, have reportedly lost an estimated $7 million in Uganda following internet shutdowns across the country. In a report made by CEO EastAfrica Media, a four-day internet shutdown may have wiped out approximately $7 million (UGX 24 billion) in data revenue for MTN and Airtel.

This shows that internet shutdown not only makes life difficult for users/citizens but also has an impact on the revenues of operators. During the internet shutdown, citizens were unable to carry out financial operations, leading to frustration and public outrage. 

This is coming even as authorities in the East African country announced the full restoration of access to all social media platforms following restrictions imposed during the recent elections. This was disclosed in a tweet on Monday by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Force.

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba

The restoration comes 13 days after the Ugandan Communications Commission (UCC) imposed an internet blackout two days before the January 15 general elections.

Speaking on the restoration of social media access, Muhoozi acknowledged the support of the citizens during the internet lockdown, expressing that their adherence to the policy helped maintain the electoral process. 

“We are releasing all social media today. I thank all the great people of Uganda for their support and cooperation throughout this electoral season. You are truly the greatest people on earth, and you give us all the courage to serve. God bless you all,” he said. 

Also confirming the development, MTN Uganda, in an X post on Monday, said: 

“Y’ello, our dear customers. Internet services are fully restored. You can now get back to what you love on WhatsApp, X (Twitter) and TikTok.”

With the restoration of social media access, Ugandans can now freely access social messaging platforms, including WhatsApp, Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and others.

Huge relief for Ugandans

The development marks the end of the East African country’s phased process of restoring full internet access. 

Last Sunday, five days after the imposed lockdown, the government restored public internet access across the country but restricted access to social media and internet connectivity for applications.

Reacting to the internet shutdown last week, the UCC’s Executive Director, Mr Nyombi Thembo, noted that the decision was intended to prevent misinformation and maintain security amid rising political tensions leading up to the election.

Thembo said that the restriction was implemented to ensure that the electoral process proceeded peacefully, adding that it is to ensure the peace of Ugandans and the entire nation.

 While social media was restricted in the first phase of internet relief, other ‘essentials’ such as web browsing, access to news websites, educational resources, government portals, financial services, and email were restored.

“In line with the directive issued to all licensed mobile network operators and internet service providers, social media platforms, and messaging over-the-top, or if you may, OTT applications remain temporarily restricted to continue safeguarding against misuse that could threaten public order,” he said during the live announcement.

Ugandan Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director, Mr Nyombi Thembo

However, two days after the first phase of internet restoration, MTN confirmed that mobile money service has been restored in the country, allowing users to deposit, make withdrawals and perform other financial transactions.

In a message to customers on Tuesday, said: “Kindly note that Mobile Money services have been restored. Please proceed with your transactions and share your feedback.”

Also Read: MTN, Airtel restore services in Uganda after 7 days of imposed shutdown.

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