The Uganda Communications Commission has announced applications for radio broadcasting frequencies in eight (8) districts as part of its mandate to promote the efficient, equitable and optimal use of Uganda’s radio frequency spectrum.
The districts are: Maracha, Gulu, Kitgum, Abim, Kaabong, Kotido, Hoima and Kisoro.
The decision is intended to broaden access to radio broadcasting, strengthen the dissemination of local content, encourage community participation and support social, cultural and economic development, particularly in underserved areas.
UCC will evaluate all applications competitively, with the most responsive application for each location considered for frequency reservation.
Applicants must be eligible for an FM broadcasting licence, must not already hold an FM frequency authorization or reservation in the area for which they are applying, and must demonstrate the technical, financial and operational capacity to establish and sustain a broadcasting service.
Proposals are also expected to demonstrate how the proposed station will respond to the information needs of the target population, promote local participation and contribute to the development priorities of the area.
From a regulatory perspective, the availability of these frequencies is not simply an opportunity to establish additional radio stations. It underscores UCC’s responsibility to manage Uganda’s radio frequency spectrum, a finite national resource, in an orderly and efficient manner to support broadcasting, public communication and national development.
Successful applicants will receive a provisional spectrum reservation and must obtain the required broadcasting licence and frequency authorization within 60 calendar days, while the assigned frequency must be operationalised within 12 months.
