After nearly 100 hours of a nationwide internet shutdown, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced the restoration of public internet access across the country, marking a significant step toward normalcy after the conclusion of the 2026 General Elections.
The announcement was made on January 18, 2026, by UCC Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo, following what he described as a comprehensive security assessment by the Inter-Agency Security Committee.
“I am pleased to announce that, following the successful conclusion of the 2026 General Elections and a careful assessment by the Inter-Agency Security Committee, the Uganda Communications Commission has directed the immediate restoration of public internet access across the country,” Nyombi said during a press briefing.
Despite the restoration of general internet services, social media platforms and over-the-top (OTT) messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and X remain temporarily restricted.
According to UCC, the continued limitation is intended to safeguard public order and prevent potential misuse of digital platforms during the post-election period. Nyombi emphasized that the restrictions are temporary and subject to ongoing review, depending on the prevailing security situation.
The UCC Executive Director also issued a firm warning to internet users, stating that the commission retains the technical capacity to monitor and track devices engaging in unlawful online activity.
“Avoid sharing or amplifying unverified information, hate speech, inflammatory content, or anything that could incite violence or disturb the peace we have all worked to preserve,” Nyombi cautioned.
He urged Ugandans to practice responsible digital citizenship, reminding users that online freedoms come with obligations.
The UCC ED says they have restored internet access, but social media platforms remain temporarily off, and warns VPN users that the commission has the ability to “attack their devices directly” and switch them off from the network.
(🎥: @ubctvuganda) pic.twitter.com/sXLEo2NEBr
— Patro Uganda (@PatroUganda) January 18, 2026
The prolonged shutdown has reignited debate around digital rights, freedom of expression, and the economic impact of internet disruptions in Uganda, particularly for businesses, media, and online service providers.
For now, Ugandans can access general internet services as the country cautiously transitions out of the election security phase.
