In a Bid to Democratize Access, UCC Opens Radio Frequency Applications in Eight Districts
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has opened applications for radio broadcasting frequencies in eight districts as part of efforts to promote equitable and efficient use of Uganda’s radio frequency spectrum.
The districts are Maracha, Gulu, Kitgum, Abim, Kaabong, Kotido, Hoima and Kisoro.
According to the statement dated 14th Aug 2026 from UCC, the initiative is intended to expand access to radio broadcasting, strengthen the dissemination of local content and increase community participation, particularly in underserved areas.
The Commission said the availability of the frequencies is also expected to support social, cultural and economic development by enabling broadcasting services to respond more directly to the information needs of local communities.
UCC will assess applications competitively, with the most responsive proposal for each location considered for frequency reservation.
Applicants must be eligible to obtain an FM broadcasting license and must not already hold an FM frequency authorization or reservation in the area for which they are applying. They will also be required to demonstrate the technical, financial and operational capacity to establish and sustain a broadcasting service.
Proposals must further show how the proposed station will address the information needs of its target population, promote local participation and contribute to the development priorities of the respective area.
The Commission said the exercise goes beyond creating opportunities for new radio stations, highlighting its responsibility to manage Uganda’s radio frequency spectrum as a finite national resource.
UCC said orderly and efficient spectrum management is essential to supporting broadcasting, public communication and national development.
Successful applicants will receive a provisional spectrum reservation and will be required to obtain the necessary broadcasting license and frequency authorization within 60 calendar days. The assigned frequency must then be operationalized within 12 months.
Interested applicants have until September 15, 2026, to submit their applications through the UCC online application platform.
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