Baryomunsi Calls for Fair and Consultative Regulation in Telecom Sector
Uganda’s telecommunications industry has experienced significant transformation over the past few decades, evolving into a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and social connectivity.
The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has urged regulators and standards bodies to adopt a fair and consultative approach in their oversight of the telecommunications sector, emphasising that consumer rights must remain central to policy decisions.
Speaking at the Telecommunications CEO Consumer Forum 2025 in Kampala, Baryomunsi highlighted the need for transparency in regulatory processes and continuous engagement with industry players and consumer groups to ensure regulations are both effective and just.
Uganda’s telecommunications industry has experienced significant transformation over the past few decades, evolving into a key driver of economic growth, innovation, and social connectivity.
From early mobile phone adoption to the rapid expansion of internet services, the sector has demonstrated remarkable progress.
The 2025 forum brought together telecom companies, regulators, and consumers to discuss critical issues affecting the industry, including pricing, mobile devices, SIM card ownership, and mobile money fraud.
Consumers raised concerns over poor responsiveness from telecom service providers, which they cited as a major obstacle to customer satisfaction.
Baryomunsi acknowledged these frustrations, urging regulators to strike a balance between enforcing compliance and safeguarding consumer interests.
“I want to urge regulators to be fair but also consultative to ensure compliance while protecting the rights of consumers,” Baryomunsi stated.
On data privacy and fraud, MTN Mobile Money management reported a decline in fraud cases, attributing the improvement to increased consumer vigilance and awareness campaigns, such as Next Media’s Beera Steady initiative, which has been praised for its impact in promoting financial security.
