Museveni welcomes Elon Musk’s push for cheaper satellite internet

• Museveni says Elon Musk’s satellite proposals could make internet cheaper than underground cables.
• The President believes global tech companies are “fighting for space,” creating opportunities for Uganda.
• Government will support whichever technology delivers the best and most affordable service for citizens.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has said Uganda is ready to take advantage of global competition in the technology sector, especially as new satellite internet services promise to lower the cost of connectivity.

While speaking about the evolution of internet infrastructure, President Museveni explained that the world has moved through different phases of technology.

“In the past, we were using cables under the ocean and it was very expensive. That’s why many countries are now shifting from the underground cables,” he said.

For years, fibre-optic cables buried in the ground and running across oceans have been the main source of internet for most countries, including Uganda. The President noted that this option became cheaper than the old satellite systems.

However, Museveni said new proposals—especially from Elon Musk—show that satellite internet may now become even more affordable than cables.

“Elon Musk is now proposing satellite internet that is cheaper. He says he can make it even cheaper than the cables we are using today,” the President said.

Museveni added that global technology companies are competing to control the future of internet access, and Uganda will benefit from that competition.

“They are fighting for space. So we shall take advantage of them,” he remarked.

The President emphasized that Uganda’s focus is on ensuring reliable, fast, and affordable internet for both citizens and investors. He said the government will continue studying new technologies and choose what serves the country best.