Uganda’s Multi-Service Authorization Regime
This Practice Note presents a table that outlines the authorization categories in
Type of Licence |
Services Covered Under Authorization |
Public Service Provider Licence |
Category 1: Public Voice and Data - Cellular, Fixed voice, GMPCS, Internet access (including IP telephony + Virtual Private Networks), Internet exchange services, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) that are not provided over the Internet Category 2: Capacity Resale - Local and international capacity resale, calling cards |
Public Infrastructure Provider Licence |
Category 1: Establishment, maintenance and operation of networks for the provision of communications service to third parties Category 2: Private Network Infrastructure (does not require an authorization unless operations include the use of essential facilities or resources such as spectrum, numbering resources, international gateway access, or VSAT) |
General Authorisation |
Category 1: Public Pay Communication Services (e.g., Internet Cafés, Payphones, telephone bureaus, etc.) Category 2: Private Networks (does not require an authorization unless operations include the use of essential facilities or resources such as spectrum, numbering resources, international gateway access, or VSAT) |
Source: UCC, Communications Licensing Application Guidelines, available at www.ucc.co.ug/licensing/default.php.
The Ugandan licensing regime also includes authorizations for Essential Facilities and Resources. Spectrum usage rights, numbering resources, international gateway access, and VSAT all require an Essential Facilities and Resources authorization.