MTN Uganda, which currently operates the largest network in the republic, is planning to invest US $170 million (approximately Shs 36 billion) in network upgrade due to the fierce competition growing in the region. The sector currently has five service providers. each trying to improve efficiency and providing competitive tariffs.

Some of the investment will be used to launch regional switching centers in Tororo, Mbarara and Masindi, said MTN's CTO Francis Kazinduki. MTN says it is weighed down by challenges like lack of power in some areas and availability of land for network expansion.