The Impact of Uganda's Internet Shutdown: Lives Disrupted and Incomes Lost

Wed Feb 04 2026 12:11:19 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A recent nationwide internet shutdown in Uganda during a controversial election has severely affected various sectors, leaving many citizens, especially those reliant on digital transactions, struggling to cope with the losses and disruptions.

In the wake of Uganda's internet blackout during a heavily contested election, many citizens faced severe economic and social disruptions. Mobile money agents like Mirembe Tracy experienced a total income loss, while businesses reliant on online platforms, including ride-hailing and e-commerce, came to a standstill. Students were unable to access online learning, and journalists struggled to report on the unfolding situation. As the internet slowly returns, the long-term effects on livelihoods and communication remain evident.

Mobile money agent Mirembe Tracy laments that her business in Uganda's bustling capital Kampala was paralysed when the government shut the internet during last week's fiercely contested general election.

All withdrawals were disconnected, she tells the BBC, adding that she gets nearly all of her income from withdrawal commissions.

Without it, her income dropped to zero.

In one week I can earn up to 450,000 [Ugandan] shillings (£96; $130). That money is what I use to pay rent. Losing it was a total loss, she says.

For two days either side of the election, there was nothing she could do but stay at home - she could only sell prepaid airtime credit, which she says does not give a commission.

Uganda's communications authority ordered the nationwide shutdown to ensure peace, protect national stability and prevent the misuse of communication platforms during a sensitive national exercise. The opposition said it was a move to cover up voter fraud and stop its agents from sharing the results from polling stations.

Either way, it brought many aspects of modern life to a halt.

Other online businesses that relied on mobile money transactions faced similar fates. Kampala is famous for its boda boda (motorcycle) taxis, with many operators earning through online ride-hailing apps. SafeBoda's co-founder reported that their entire server was down during the suspension, leaving riders and related businesses without income.

Namukwaya Olivia, who sells traditional clothing and relies heavily on Instagram and WhatsApp for her business, said she could not make deliveries or communicate with customers effectively, resulting in lost sales.

Students, including final-year pupil Aaron Benitez, struggled with disrupted communications and halted online learning, exacerbating their concerns during the election period.

The government partially restored the internet following Museveni's victory announcement, yet many digital platforms continue to face restrictions, impacting normalcy in citizens' lives.

The shutdown serves as a stark reminder of the vital role digital access plays in modern society, affecting everything from daily transactions to essential communications.