Among other functions outlined in the Uganda Communications Act 2013, UCC is obliged to encourage and enable competition in the communications sector through regulation and licensing of competitive operators to achieve competitively priced and high-quality services.
To achieve this, the regulator needs to be fully aware and cognizant of market features, including the level of competition, the different sub-markets therein, the dominance of some players and the potential of such players to abuse their dominance, among other factors.
It’s in line with that obligation that UCC in 2024 commissioned a telecommunication market definition and assessment study to examine and evaluate competition in the industry, as well as identify market participants, their services and products.
This study has how entered a new phase, following the presentation of an inception report at UCC last week. During an engagement attended by the operators, the consultants shared their inception report, detailing how the study is to be conducted.
The consultants are seeking to understand the market and through that establish what can be done to enhance competitiveness. The study will cover all critical elements of telecommunication, including fixed lines, mobile, broadband internet, tower markets, and other related services.
The consultants will also seek to identify the various products and services available in the telecommunications market and to understand barriers to entry and expansion. They will further analyse substitutes for products and services in the market, including alternative technologies and services.
World over, regulators engage in studies to inform regulatory interventions, including enhancement of competitiveness in the industry and to establish barriers to competition so as to promote a better business environment. The idea is to minimise non-competitive practices, which potentially lead to higher prices and reduced choices.
THE COMMUNICATIONS BLOG 
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