Govt Moves to Regulate Social Media, Cut Internet Costs

 Government has announced plans to regulate social media use and further reduce internet costs as part of efforts to promote responsible digital engagement and expand online access across the country.

Minister for ICT and National Guidance Chris Baryomunsi said a new communication policy has been drafted to guide the proper use of social media platforms, encouraging citizens to leverage them for business, education, research and personal development.

Speaking at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi on Tuesday, Dr Baryomunsi said the policy is aimed at promoting productive online activity rather than restricting access.

He revealed that government plans to acquire specialised equipment to filter social media content in order to encourage responsible usage.

On internet affordability, the minister said government is working to make connectivity cheaper and more accessible nationwide through the expansion of the National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI).

He said Uganda has significantly reduced internet bandwidth costs over the years by increasing fibre optic coverage and diversifying international internet routes.

Previously reliant on a single route, Uganda has since added connections through Rwanda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, a move officials say has improved redundancy and competition, contributing to lower costs.

Dr Baryomunsi also disclosed that government is engaging manufacturers to establish local production of digital devices such as mobile phones and computers to make them more affordable.

He said reducing the cost of devices and internet services would enable more Ugandans to transact digitally, study online and access government and private sector services with ease.

The planned measures come amid growing internet penetration and increased reliance on digital platforms for communication, commerce and public services.