The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) assessed the National Conference on Communications (NCC) after nine editions to measure its effectiveness and sustainability. Consultants from Makerere University Business School reviewed documents, interviewed stakeholders, and surveyed participants. They found that organizers implemented 13.3% of solutions and sustained 22.2% of collaborations. UCC and the consultants proposed a strategic roadmap, including a digital platform, collaboration fund, and innovation programs, to strengthen NCC’s role in Uganda’s ICT policy and innovation.

American satellite internet company Starlink blocked its services in Uganda after the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) raised concerns about illegal use. Starlink clarified that it does not sell or market services in Uganda and that prior users had imported terminals without authorization. The company implemented a new service restriction and pledged to cooperate with UCC licensing. Bobi Wine called on Starlink to restore access ahead of Uganda’s January 15 election to ensure free communication and participation.

Ugandan authorities threatened to block Jack Dorsey’s messaging app Bitchat ahead of national elections. They claimed they could disable it. Developers rejected the claim, noting the app uses a Bluetooth mesh network, has no central servers, and needs no accounts or phone numbers. Over 400,000 Ugandans downloaded it, with adoption rising after Bobi Wine recommended it. Users also rely on it during shutdowns and disasters.

The Buganda Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, urged children to pursue holistic education that combines formal learning with practical life skills during the Ekisaakaate Kya Nnaabagereka 2026. Speaking at the camp in Wakiso District, he emphasized resilience, mental wellness, culture, and strong child-parent bonds. The program brought together children to learn history, values, and hands-on skills aimed at preparing them to contribute to Buganda and Uganda’s future.

The Uganda One Festival showcased the nation’s creative talent and culture at Kololo Independence Grounds. The two-day event highlighted arts, music, and cultural expressions while promoting unity, national pride, and economic development through the creative sector. Minister of State for Gender, Labor, and Social Development, Peace Mutuuzo, urged artists to access the 28 billion-shilling Creative Uganda Revolving Fund, designed to support the creative industry and generate employment opportunities nationwide.

The head of Uganda’s Abavandimwe Council, Frank Gashumba, announced that the Abavandimwe Carnival, first held on January 3 at Lugogo Cricket Oval, will become an annual event. He praised the high turnout and the role of the carnival in promoting unity, culture, and peace. The Bavandimwe, indigenous Banyarwanda living in Uganda, were joined by other Ugandans in the celebration. Gashumba thanked organizers, artists, and participants, and confirmed the second edition is scheduled for November 2026.

Uganda’s exports of goods and services reached USD 13.4 billion in the 2024/25 financial year, with merchandise exports contributing USD 10.6 billion. The strong trade performance helped the country record a Balance of Payments surplus of USD 2.37 billion, the highest in 15 years. Foreign direct investment rose to USD 3.5 billion, portfolio inflows reached USD 1.7 billion, and remittances hit USD 1.6 billion. Tourism earnings also grew to USD 1.7 billion.

The Criminal Investigations Directorate, in collaboration with the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, has initiated an investigation into Uganda Airlines regarding allegations of abuse of office, embezzlement, and false accounting. Investigators requested financial, procurement, and operational records, including budgets, contracts for Boeing aircraft, fuel suppliers, ticketing agents, and the London route expansion. The inquiry focuses on missing service fees exceeding $9.2 million, disputed aircraft purchases, and potential conflicts of interest in revenue management.

Uganda’s shilling emerged as the world’s most stable currency, appreciating 2.45% against major currencies in the year ending December 2025, according to Ramathan Ggoobi, Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury. The currency’s strength reflects low inflation, disciplined fiscal management, strategic fuel imports, and government investment in food production. Uganda recorded 6.3% GDP growth in FY2024/25, a $2.37 billion balance of payments surplus, and rising exports, FDI, and remittances, highlighting strong macroeconomic fundamentals.