The Ugandan government has summoned telecom operators MTN and Airtel to address concerns over data depletion and unstable network connectivity. The meeting, chaired by Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Hon. Sanjay Tanna, was attended by officials from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and representatives from MTN Uganda and Airtel. The discussions focused on improving service delivery and addressing consumer complaints.
Consumers have expressed frustration over the rapid depletion of data bundles and airtime, as well as poor network connectivity. The meeting highlighted several issues affecting consumers, including unstable network connectivity and complaints about airtime and data bundles expiring or being depleted before consumers have fully utilised them. Hon. Tanna challenged the telecommunications operators to address these concerns and improve service delivery.
The commissioning of mobile money dealers was also raised, with a call for operators to ensure that dealers are properly onboarded and accessible to customers. The meeting was attended by Head Legal and Regulatory Affairs, Airtel, UCC was represented by Manager Legal and Compliance, meanwhile MTN Uganda was represented by Manager Brand and Communications.
In response, 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. This move aims to enhance the quality, accessibility, and affordability of telecommunications services in Uganda.
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. The meeting further 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 concerns raised by consumers and discussed in the meeting reflect a broader issue affecting the telecommunications sector in Uganda. With the increasing demand for reliable and affordable communication services, telecom operators are under pressure to improve their services. The government's intervention aims to address these concerns and promote a more competitive and consumer-friendly market.
The outcome of the meeting and the implementation of the agreed-upon measures will be crucial in determining the future of telecommunications services in Uganda. As the sector continues to evolve, consumers and industry players will be watching closely to ensure that the concerns raised are addressed and that services improve.
Key points
- Telecom operators in Uganda have been challenged to address concerns over data depletion and poor network connectivity.
- The Ugandan government has summoned MTN and Airtel to improve service delivery and address consumer complaints.
- The operators have committed to submitting a detailed report addressing the issues raised within the next two weeks.
