UCC speaks out on internet, mobile money shutdown rumors

Uganda Communications Commission Executive Director, Nyombi Thembo, addresses the media in Kampala

KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Communications Commission on Saturday flagged a viral public notice as fraudulent, dismissing claims that mobile money and banking services would be suspended during the upcoming general elections.

The document, which bore the commission’s logo and was dated Jan. 2, 2026, claimed that all mobile money and Airtel Money services would be switched off nationwide starting Jan. 8. It also advised the public to withdraw bank funds early, alleging that financial services would be unavailable throughout the election period.

In a public advisory issued via its verified social media channels, the UCC characterized the notice as fake and urged citizens to disregard it.

“The Uganda Communications Commission alerts the public that a circulating notice is fake and not issued by the Commission,” the regulator stated.

Officials emphasized that the commission only distributes official updates through verified channels and urged the public to consult those platforms for accurate information regarding communication services.

The fake notice had prompted concerns among the public and the business community, as many people across the country rely on mobile money for daily transactions. This clarification comes as the government works to ensure stability in communication and financial services leading up to the 2026 polls.