The number of broadband subscriptions in Uganda now stands at 23.7 million after 232 000 were added between April and June 2022.

This is according to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) which said that based on a year-on-year comparison, the 12 months ended June 2022 recorded 1.9 million new broadband subscriptions which represents an 8% year-on-year growth.

In a recent quarterly report, the authority said the 23.7 million broadband subscriptions translates into a broadband penetration of 55 internet connections for every 100 Ugandans.

This also signifies an increase in demand for smartphones, the regulator added.

The UCC expects a significant increase in competition within broadband service delivery and anticipates a decrease in the cost of internet services.

MTN Uganda has announced a partnership with China’s itel Mobile to provide what they describe as affordable devices in order to accelerate smartphone penetration in the country.

The report stated, “The 232, 000 new broadband connections are 34% of total new telephone connections. The growth of new broadband connections may be attributed to new smartphone promotional device activities during the quarter. As of June 2022, the total number of internet enabled gadgets connected to the internet stood at 10.9 million compared to 25 million feature phones and basic phones. “

Richard Kadoro, telecommunications researcher at Computer Society of Zambia said, “As in other countries in Africa, Uganda is experiencing a rise in broadband connections mainly because mobile phone operators are selling data-enabled phones at reduced prices due to stiff competition in data provisions among themselves. Secondly, operators are also expanding their 4G network coverage to new and underserved areas as they compete for growth after realising that customers are many becoming data minded and benefiting greatly from promotional data bundles by operators.”