Uganda Communications Commission: ATC Remits UGX 20.9bn for Digital Inclusion

• American Tower Corporation (ATC) Uganda remitted UGX 20.9 billion to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
• The contribution finances initiatives promoting digital inclusion through the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF).
• Half of the remittance goes towards national development, while the balance is retained by UCC to finance UCUSAF initiatives.
• This development highlights the importance of telecom operators complying with their statutory obligation to remit 2% of their gross annual revenue.

This contribution demonstrates the power of partnership between Government and the private sector in advancing Uganda's digital transformation agenda.

American Tower Corporation (ATC) Uganda has fulfilled its statutory obligation to remit 2% of its gross annual revenue to the Government, presenting UGX 20.9 billion to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). This contribution finances initiatives promoting digital inclusion and extending communications services to underserved communities through the Uganda Communications Universal Service and Access Fund (UCUSAF), administered by UCC. The cheque hand-over ceremony was attended by senior officials from the communications sector, members of the media, and dignitaries such as Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance Hon. Joyce Ssebugwawo and Executive Director of UCC Hon. Nyombi Thembo. Speaking at the event, Hon. Ssebugwawo emphasized that this contribution demonstrates the power of partnership between Government and the private sector in advancing Uganda's digital transformation agenda.

The 2% levy on telecom revenue is a statutory licensing obligation that finances initiatives promoting digital inclusion. The remittance of telecom revenue to the Consolidated Fund is a key aspect of this regulatory requirement, with half of the contribution going towards national development and the balance retained by UCC to finance UCUSAF initiatives. This funding supports the extension of communications services to communities that would otherwise remain underserved, aligning with Government's commitment to bridging the digital divide and advancing digital inclusion. The contribution also highlights the importance of safeguarding communications infrastructure against vandalism, a shared responsibility requiring collaboration among Government, regulators, operators, and communities.

This development underscores the significance of telecom operators in Uganda complying with their statutory obligation to remit 2% of their gross annual revenue. The contribution not only finances initiatives promoting digital inclusion but also reflects the principle that companies prospering in Uganda should contribute to the country's long-term development. As Hon. Ssebugwawo noted, digital transformation is not just about deploying infrastructure; it's about improving lives by ensuring meaningful access to connectivity. This contribution demonstrates the private sector's commitment to supporting Uganda's digital future and highlights the need for continued investment and innovation in the communications sector.

This development highlights the importance for telecom operators in Uganda to comply with their statutory obligation to remit 2% of their gross annual revenue, which finances initiatives promoting digital inclusion and extending communications services to underserved communities. Lawyers advising telecom clients should be aware of this regulatory requirement and its implications on their business operations.

Source: Original reporting via ATC UGANDA CONTRIBUTES UGX 20.9BN TO SUPPORT UNIVERSAL ACCESS