Uganda has recently approved a groundbreaking proposal for a single SIM card policy, aimed at simplifying communication across all mobile networks in the country. This initiative, designed to alleviate the burden of managing multiple SIM cards for mobile phone users, was unanimously approved during a plenary session presided over by Deputy Parliamentary Speaker Thomas Tayebwa.
The policy, championed in parliament by Mityana MP Joyce Bagala, is set to allow consumers to make calls, send texts, and conduct transactions seamlessly across different mobile networks. This move is expected to enhance network accessibility, reduce connectivity costs, and improve service quality as telecom companies compete to offer the best services to retain customers.
Parliament has called on the Uganda Communications Commission to swiftly implement the policy. The proposed consumer protection measure will enable subscribers to retain their phone numbers when switching networks or relocating, ultimately improving network accessibility, lowering communication costs, and enhancing service quality through healthy competition among telecom providers.
Deputy Speaker Tayebwa highlighted the convenience that this new policy will bring to Ugandans, including parliamentarians. He emphasized the relief of not having to carry multiple phones, especially during international travels where the necessity of carrying multiple phones is questioned.
Despite the benefits of the policy, its implementation comes with challenges. State Minister for ICT, Godfrey Kabbyanga Baluku, cautioned that the transition will require significant infrastructure upgrades from both the government and telecom providers.
As Uganda gears up for this groundbreaking change in the telecom sector, it is important for stakeholders to work together to ensure a smooth transition. The approval of the single SIM card policy is a significant step towards modernizing communication in Uganda and providing greater convenience to mobile phone users.
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