While neighbour Kenya has seen nearly one million phones turned off as a result of the government registration of hand devices, Uganda could be facing an even larger figure with many residents still unregistered.
According to the ministry of communications, the country has 10 million SIM card users to register, with many still outstanding, sparking fears that the result could be disastrous to the telecom sector.
The ministry issued late last month a new directive to help inform users of the need to register their SIM in order to maintain services, but many still remain on the outside.
Residents have until March of next year to register, so the government is not in panic mode just yet.
However, after Kenya saw massive black-outs of users, Kamapala wants to ensure that its mobile phone users are on the same page and understand the importance of registering.
According to the Uganda Communications Commission, only 40 percent of the 17 million SIM cards have been registered.
Experts say there is still time to get customers to register, but the ministry believes that without a concerted effort to educate and inform, millions could see their services cut in 6 months time.
Mohammad Awad
