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MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda have been promoting 5G technology as the future of high-speed broadband internet in Uganda. They claim that 5G will revolutionize the digital landscape and provide fast connectivity across the country. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story.

In ideal conditions, 5G has data speeds of up to 100 times faster than its predecessor, 4G, reaching between 500 Mbps and a gigabyte per second. Telecoms have conducted trial tests within Kampala city to showcase these speeds. Airtel has already rolled out 50 5G sites in the Kampala Metropolitan Area, while MTN claims that their 5G network is significantly faster than 4G.

5G technology has the potential to unlock various advanced services such as virtual and augmented reality, ultra-high-definition video streaming, artificial intelligence, robotics, automated cars, and the Internet of Things. The telecoms believe that 5G will play a crucial role in driving ICT solutions and providing unparalleled digital experiences for Ugandans.

However, despite the hype, many residents and business people in 5G locations, such as Lugogo mall in Kampala, are yet to experience the benefits of 5G. Some traders at Lugogo mall rely on wireless internet from other service providers for their business operations and only use cellular data as a backup. Others claim that their phones are not 5G-compatible, preventing them from accessing the network even in 5G locations.

While some individuals have had positive experiences with 5G, the majority are unable to access the network due to the limited availability of 5G-compatible phones. Only a few categories of phones, such as the latest iPhone and Samsung models, are able to utilize the 5G network. These phones come at a high cost, making them unaffordable for many Ugandans.

According to telecom experts, 5G-compatible phones can cost a minimum of 0, a significant amount for the average Ugandan who can only afford a basic smartphone priced at around .3.

In conclusion, although the telecoms have hyped 5G technology as a game-changer for Uganda’s internet connectivity, the reality is that the majority of Ugandans are still unable to access the high-speed network due to the limited availability and high cost of 5G-compatible phones.

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