MTN Uganda is accelerating the country’s digital revolution with a commitment of over UGX 2 trillion in infrastructure investment, CEO Sylvia Mulinge told NBS Television in an exclusive interview.
The funds are aimed at expanding digital access, particularly in underserved rural areas, and strengthening the foundation of Uganda’s rapidly growing digital economy.
Mulinge described telecommunications as “the engine powering Uganda’s digital economy,” emphasizing that the sector now underpins commerce, education, healthcare, and financial inclusion.
“Telecom infrastructure today supports everything from mobile banking to e-learning and e-government services,” she said. “Without strong connectivity, Uganda’s digital transformation simply cannot happen.”
Despite the growth of digital services, unequal access to reliable internet remains a challenge, especially in rural communities.
Mulinge said MTN’s investment is focused on expanding 4G coverage, upgrading network capacity, and improving service quality to ensure all Ugandans can participate fully in the digital economy.
“When you connect a rural community, you unlock economic potential. Farmers access market prices, students access online resources, and small businesses reach new customers,” she said.
“We are investing heavily in network expansion and modernization to ensure that no community is left behind. Connectivity is not a luxury — it is a necessity.”
As more Ugandans go online, digital fraud has emerged as a key risk. Mulinge highlighted progress in reducing scams through the Beera Steady Campaign, a nationwide initiative to educate users on phishing, SIM swap fraud, mobile money impersonation, and suspicious calls or messages.
“Digital fraud in the telecom sector has reduced drastically,” Mulinge said. “The Beera Steady Campaign has empowered customers with knowledge — and awareness is the strongest defense.”
Looking ahead, Mulinge said Uganda’s telecom sector will continue to drive economic development through fintech innovation, smart infrastructure, and expanded digital services.
“Trust is everything,” she said. “As we digitize more services, we must ensure security, reliability, and accessibility for all Ugandans.”
Under Mulinge’s leadership, MTN is positioning telecom operators not just as service providers, but as architects of Uganda’s digital future — a future defined by inclusion, resilience, and opportunity for every citizen.
