The Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Mr Nyombi Thembo, has revealed a more conciliatory approach in the regulator’s dealings with digital content creators.
This follows an engaging discussion with journalist and TikTok commentator Dean Lubowa Ssaava, months after the broadcaster was convicted for operating without a licence.
In a statement shared after the engagement, Mr Thembo said the relationship between the regulator and online publishers should not be viewed as a constant confrontation.
“Despite common beliefs, our engagement is founded on a shared dedication to maintaining a structured and lawful digital space, rather than conflict,” Mr Thembo said.
The meeting was notable because Mr Ssaava, had earlier faced legal action from UCC over operating an online television platform without authorisation.
Mr Thembo said the latest engagement reflected a new effort by the Commission to work more closely with players in the fast-growing digital media space.
“I want to congratulate Dean Lubowa Saava on obtaining his license, a major milestone in aligning his professional activities with the sector's regulatory standards,” he said.
He said the country’s digital growth had made regulation unavoidable, pointing to the rising number of users on mobile and online platforms.
“Communication has become the most widespread service in Uganda, with mobile subscriptions hitting 58 million and 25 million unique users,” Mr Thembo said.
“There are 21 million smartphones actively in use, and platforms like TikTok and YouTube are reaching millions, making public regulation essential rather than optional for ensuring national safety.”
Mr Thembo acknowledged that disagreements between regulators and users would continue, but said UCC intended to handle such differences through dialogue.
“Although new regulations may conflict with personal preferences, the Uganda Communications Commission works to reduce these conflicts by maintaining ongoing engagement,” he said.
He added that the Commission was now placing greater attention on consumer rights, legal compliance and protection of personal information as digital use expands across the country.
In February, Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court fined Mr Ssaava Shs4 million after finding him guilty of operating an unlicensed online television station contrary to Uganda’s communications laws.
The prosecution accused of broadcasting without a licence issued by UCC, the body mandated to regulate the communications sector.
The court had also ordered the forfeiture of equipment used in the broadcasts, including cameras, microphones, audio mixers, flash disks and computers, to the Commission.
