Uganda has officially restored full internet access, including all social media and over-the-top (OTT) messaging platforms, bringing an end to weeks of digital restrictions imposed during the 2026 general elections.
The announcement follows a phased restoration process that began on January 18, 2026, when the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) confirmed the return of public internet access, excluding social media platforms. At the time, UCC stated that the decision was guided by assessments from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, citing the need to balance national security with economic and social stability.
The Uganda Communications Commission announced the restoration of public internet access following a nationwide shutdown during the 2026 General Elections, while maintaining restrictions on social media platforms.
Read more: https://t.co/D2pp0Arj2B pic.twitter.com/BkbbmbiF9G
— Urban+ (@urbanplus256) January 18, 2026
Despite the partial restoration, many Ugandans continued to experience limited digital freedom as access to platforms such as Facebook, X, WhatsApp, and other OTT services remained restricted. The prolonged shutdown sparked public debate, with users questioning the necessity of continued limitations after voting concluded.
Some citizens resorted to using VPN services to access social media, while businesses, media houses, and content creators reported disruptions to operations and audience engagement.
On January 26, 2026, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Senior Presidential Advisor and Chief of Defence Forces, announced the complete lifting of social media restrictions in a public post on his official X account.
“We are releasing all social media today. I thank all the great people of Uganda for their support and co-operation throughout this electoral season. You are truly the greatest people on earth and you give us all the courage to serve. God bless you all.”
The announcement was met with widespread relief and marked a key turning point in Uganda’s post-election digital environment.
We are releasing all social media today. I thank all the great people of Uganda for their support and co-operation throughout this electoral season. You are truly the greatest people on earth and you give us all the courage to serve. Godbless you all.
— Muhoozi Kainerugaba (@mkainerugaba) January 26, 2026
Later on the same day, the Uganda Communications Commission issued an official statement confirming that all internet services had been fully restored without restrictions.
UCC thanked the public for their patience and cooperation during the period of limited connectivity, adding that it remains committed to ensuring a safe, stable, and reliable digital environment for all users.
FULL RESTORATION OF INTERNET SERVICES:
We sincerely appreciate the patience, cooperation and understanding shown during the period of limited internet access.
We remain committed to promoting a safe, stable and reliable online experience for all users.#ConnectedUganda2030… pic.twitter.com/0vU8A9OQMk— UCC (@UCC_Official) January 26, 2026
The full restoration is expected to normalize digital activity across multiple sectors, including mobile money services, online businesses, education, media, and government platforms. Analysts say the episode has once again highlighted the central role of internet access in modern governance, economic stability, and democratic participation.
As Uganda moves forward from the election season, attention is now turning to long-term discussions on digital rights, network resilience, and transparent communication during periods of national significance.
Also Read : https://urbanplusmedia.com/internet-shutdown-concerns-resurface-as-uganda-nears-elections/
Uganda Restores Internet After 100-Hour Shutdown, Social Media Still Restricted
