Satellite internet giant Starlink, a division of Elon Musk’s aerospace company SpaceX, is exploring opportunities to establish operations in Uganda following a high-level meeting with Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni held yesterday in Nakasero.
The meeting brought together Starlink representatives Ben MacWilliams and Brandi Oliver, facilitated by Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Amb. Adonia Ayebare, and U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William Popp. Ugandan officials welcomed Starlink’s commitment to delivering low-cost, high-speed internet, especially in hard-to-reach and underserved communities.
Starlink is a global satellite internet constellation project developed by SpaceX, founded and led by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. The service is designed to provide broadband-level internet access via thousands of small satellites in low-Earth orbit, enabling connectivity even in remote or rural areas where traditional infrastructure is limited or nonexistent.
“I appreciate Starlink’s interest in Uganda and their commitment to improving digital access in the country’s most challenging regions. They are welcome here,” President Museveni said after the meeting. The visit is seen as a step toward strengthening Uganda’s digital infrastructure and supporting its ongoing digital transformation agenda.
With many parts of Uganda still lacking reliable internet connectivity, Starlink’s entry could revolutionize access to education, healthcare, business, and government services in rural regions. The discussions also reflect deepening cooperation between Uganda and the United States in advancing technological innovation and infrastructure development.
Next steps will include regulatory discussions and potential partnerships to pave the way for Starlink’s official launch in Uganda.
