UCC Sets Deadline To Deactivate Over 330,000 Unregistered SIM Cards

By Hason Mutunzi Bwambale 

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a new directive, setting a deadline of November 12th for the deactivation of more than 330,000 SIM cards that have not been fully registered in accordance with the latest regulatory guidelines. The move is part of the UCC’s ongoing efforts to enhance national security and improve the traceability of SIM card owners.

The UCC has emphasized the importance of fully registering SIM cards with the correct National Identification Numbers (NINs) to combat criminal activities such as fraud, terrorism, and other illicit practices. By linking each SIM card with its owner’s identification information, authorities will have the ability to easily trace and hold individuals accountable for any wrongdoing.

The upcoming deactivation process will render any unregistered SIM cards completely unusable. Mobile service providers have been directed to inform their subscribers about the impending deactivation and urge them to complete the registration process before the November 12th deadline.

The UCC has further warned against the sale and use of unregistered SIM cards, emphasizing that such actions are strictly prohibited by law. Individuals who come across unregistered SIM cards are encouraged to report them to their service providers or law enforcement agencies to prevent any potential misuse.

The UCC has stated that the decision to deactivate unregistered SIM cards is crucial for national security and the overall well-being of Ugandan citizens. The commission has urged all subscribers to take this matter seriously and promptly complete their registrations to avoid disruptions in their communication services.

The deadline for SIM card deactivation, set for November 12th, looms large. Failure to adhere to the registration guidelines may result in severe consequences, including the loss of communication services for affected individuals.

The UCC remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of Uganda’s telecommunications networks, urging citizens to cooperate fully to meet the registration requirements. By doing so, Uganda can take a significant step forward in strengthening national security measures and protecting its citizens from potential threats.