After Indian Ocean and the Moon Claims, Museveni Now Targets Uganda’s Internet

President Yoweri Museveni has set off another national debate. He now wants the Ugandan government to control the country’s core internet infrastructure. His call comes days after his surprising claims about the Indian Ocean and later, the moon. His new position has again drawn attention across the region.

Museveni said private companies cannot be trusted with vital digital systems. He argued that they chase profit above everything. He said this creates monopolies. It also keeps data expensive. He insisted that ordinary citizens suffer most when prices rise. He said the state must take charge of the main transmission backbone. “Private firms” he said, “should only run the commercial side.” He believes this model will cut costs. It will also push the internet to more rural areas.

He said the government has already expanded fibre across Uganda. He said the rollout continues. He promised lower data charges once the state network becomes the main provider. He urged Ugandans to switch to the state system whenever private operators set high prices. He claimed the government will not exploit users. He also said essential digital tools must be protected. Technology, he noted, now guides almost everything. He warned that leaving key networks in private hands threatens national interests.

Museveni looked back at his years in the liberation struggle. He said earlier operations involved guesswork. He noted that modern devices are more precise. He argued that this shift proves why the state must protect critical digital infrastructure. He said Uganda needs reliable and affordable internet to grow its economy. He also tied the plan to his 2026 re-election agenda.

Museveni has ruled Uganda since 1986. He continues to pitch digital development as a national priority. He highlighted progress under the National Backbone Infrastructure project. He said Phase V is underway. He promised faster speeds and broader access.

His new remarks follow his earlier claim that Uganda had a stake in the Indian Ocean. He warned of future conflicts over sea routes and access to Mombasa. Days later, he changed tone. He said space and even the moon belongs to all nations. His fresh push for state-controlled internet has now added another twist to his recent statements.