- VPN interest spiked in Uganda right after the public internet was suspended
- Proton VPN confirmed an 8,000% increase in signups on Tuesday
- Uganda imposes restrictions two days ahead of presidential elections
Interest in VPN applications has surged among Ugandans following the government's internet shutdown on January 13, just two days before the presidential elections.
According to Google Trends data, searches for 'VPN' spiked immediately after the internet suspension and continue to rise.
Proton VPN, recognized as one of the best free VPN services, reported an astonishing 8,000% increase in signups from Uganda between 2 PM and 3 PM GMT on Tuesday. David Peterson, Proton VPN's General Manager, noted, "We had already seen two prior spikes in recent weeks as locals prepared for a predicted internet blackout," in a tweet.
This internet suspension was ordered by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). While essential services like online banking remain accessible, social media, video streaming, and messaging apps are affected, along with satellite internet services such as Starlink.
Only authorized personnel are permitted to use a VPN to access the blocked services, with restrictions expected to last until the UCC issues a restoration notice.
Earlier this month, the UCC dismissed rumors of an impending internet shutdown, warning those attempting to use VPNs to bypass the Facebook ban that they are not "immune to legal action."
Are VPNs Working in Uganda?
In contrast to the ongoing Iranian digital blackout, where even the best VPN applications are ineffective during a total internet shutdown, reports indicate that some Ugandans are successfully using VPNs to bypass restrictions.
According to social media reports, VPN apps are among the most downloaded in Uganda's app stores, alongside alternatives like Bitchat, which uses Bluetooth for messaging.
As of Wednesday morning, Uganda's internet connectivity was around 20%, as per NetBlocks data. In contrast, Iran's connectivity has been nearly zero since January 8, making VPN usage impossible.
However, the situation in Uganda may evolve rapidly.
We have reached out to Proton and digital rights experts in Uganda to gather insights on the ongoing situation and potential ways to navigate the restrictions. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Why Has Uganda Suspended Internet Access?
The UCC stated that the internet shutdown is necessary to "mitigate the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and related risks, as well as to prevent incitement of violence that could undermine public confidence and national security during the election period."
Digital rights advocates emphasize that internet access is vital for ensuring free information flow and freedom of expression during such critical times. Access Now noted, "These rights are essential for inclusive participation and are a cornerstone of free, fair, and credible elections."
Uganda has a history of internet shutdowns during elections, notably in 2021 when restrictions lasted a week and over 100 VPN apps were blocked, according to Access Now.
The Committee to Protect Journalists has reported incidents of journalists being assaulted while covering the lead-up to the elections, which will see opposition leader Bobi Wine challenge President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for nearly 40 years.