The Ugandan government has imposed immediate restrictions on the importation and customs clearance of Starlink satellite equipment, requiring written authorization from the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF). This directive, effective immediately, comes just 24 days before Uganda’s January 2026 general election.

• All Starlink technology gadgets and associated components now require clearance from the Chief of Defence Forces.
• The restriction was implemented via a memo dated December 19, 2025.
• During the 2021 general election, the Ugandan government shut down internet and social media platforms nationwide due to security concerns.
• Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) spokesperson Robert Kalumba stated that security clearance and government licensing for certain technologies is standard global practice.