By Spy Uganda
Several television stations in Uganda were unexpectedly switched off air on Wednesday after Signet, a signal distributor under the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC), disconnected them over non-payment of carriage fees.
The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) confirmed the development in a communication to its members, urging affected stations to urgently liaise with the UBC finance team to resolve the matter.
“We have unfortunately learnt that several TVs were switched off today by Signet over non-payment. Kindly check if yours is on,” read a message sent out by Innocent, on behalf of the NAB Executive Committee (EXCO).
Signet, which serves as the primary signal distributor for most free-to-air TV stations in Uganda, has in recent years been in the spotlight over its payment structure and policies, which broadcasters have described as burdensome and lacking flexibility.
NAB noted that it has previously held multiple engagements with key stakeholders, including Signet and UBC management, in attempts to resolve the ongoing issues related to carriage fees and service disruptions.
“We have also reached out to UBC Signet leadership, who say they are willing to engage individual members,” the statement continued.
In a bid to secure a more sustainable solution, NAB has also reached out to the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, who reportedly promised to personally intervene and engage UBC for a lasting resolution.
“This is a matter of public interest and broadcasting continuity. We are all hands on deck to find a lasting solution,” the association emphasized.
The development raises concerns not only about the financial strain on private broadcasters but also about public access to timely information—especially in a digital broadcasting era where most stations rely on Signet’s infrastructure.
More updates are expected in the coming days as NAB and UBC continue their discussions.
