MTN’s TechCo Leap & Uganda’s Digital Backbone
KampalaUganda
MTN Uganda plans to spin off its fintech arm and rebrand as a “TechCo,” while the government forges new partnerships to build shared digital infrastructure. These moves could reshape Uganda’s tech landscape — but will they deliver equitable gains for all citizens?
MTN’s Fintech Spin-Off & TechCo Vision
In July 2025, MTN Uganda shareholders approved the separation of its mobile money / fintech business into a standalone entity. This new unit is expected to list on the Uganda Securities Exchange in 3–5 years.
But arguably more transformative is MTN’s pivot into a “TechCo” model — pushing beyond telecom services into a broader digital infrastructure role. It plans to invest in cloud services, digital platforms, ecosystem services, and deeper integration across sectors like health, agriculture, e-commerce, and public systems.
MTN’s executives say the ambition is to be more than a connectivity provider — a backbone for Uganda’s digital economy. Some of its planned initiatives include rural 4G expansion, 5G pilots in industrial hubs, and connected supply-chain solutions.
Shared Broadband & Infrastructure for All
Complementing private sector moves, the Government has introduced the “Internet for All” shared infrastructure model — a collaboration where telecom operators, infrastructure providers, and public agencies pool resources to extend broadband to underserved areas.
In parallel, Uganda is partnering with Tanzania to boost regional digital connectivity, especially to address last-mile access challenges that have long plagued rural zones.
On the institutional front, Presight, a global big data/AI firm, signed a MoU with NITA Uganda to strengthen cybersecurity, cloud services, and e-government systems. And Uganda is deepening ties with the UN Technology Bank to build national capacities in tech adoption, particularly in agriculture and industrial technology.
What’s at Stake & What Could Go Wrong
Equity & inclusion: The gains from digital transformation must reach rural, marginalized, low-income communities. Technologies must not reinforce digital divides.
Regulation & competition: Oversight over data privacy, interoperability, fair pricing, and anti-monopoly concerns will intensify.
Sustainability & business models: The cost of extending connectivity to sparsely populated areas is high; shared infrastructure and cross-subsidies may be necessary.
Security & trust: As more services climb into the digital realm, cybersecurity becomes central. Safeguards against misuse and breaches are essential.
Forward Look
Over the next months, watch for:
The formal registration and branding of MTN’s fintech spin-off, its product roadmap, and listing timeline.
Pilot zones for shared infrastructure in underconnected areas.
Government and private sector bids, tenders, and public-private partnership (PPP) deals in digital infrastructure.
Regulatory moves, especially around data governance, digital tax policy, cross-border digital trade, and telecom competition.
If successful, Uganda could emerge as a regional hub for digital services and a platform for innovation across East Africa. But the journey will demand coordination, oversight, and a commitment to not leaving anyone behind.
