KAMPALA- The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced a crackdown on illegal radio stations and unlicensed megaphones across the country.
The Uganda Commissions Commission- UCC Spokesperson Ibrahim Bbosa, said that the operations are part of serious measures to tackle non-compliant operators violating broadcasting laws under the Uganda Communications Commission Act 2013. Spokesperson Ibrahim Bbosa revealed that 17 unlicensed radio stations continue to operate despite repeated warnings. The stations, which he declined to name, said will face imminent shutdown, and their owners will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
“We will not hesitate to take action against non-compliant radio stations. The 17 identified stations must cease operations immediately or face prosecution. They are mostly found in Greater Masaka, Luweero and Mubende.” Bbosa said. According to UCC, In January 2024, a cease-and-desist notice was issued to all unlicensed, followed by criminal summons in Jury. But some stations have complied voluntarily, but seventeen remain operating illegally, despite holding substantial influence in their regions.
In addition to targeting unlicensed stations, UCC said more efforts will also be put at eliminating the use of megaphones, which are often used in public places without proper authorization. “Besides cracking down on unlicensed radio stations, we’re also tackling the misuse of megaphones in public spaces,”Bbosa stated.
According to Bbosa, these devices disrupt public peace and order, and are not licensed by any entity in Uganda for broadcasting purposes. UCC noted that they have received several complaints about the megaphone operations. Under section 5 (b) of the Uganda communications Act 2013, UCC is the only entity authorized to license communication services in Uganda.
