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MTN Mobile Money Uganda Limited (MTN MoMo) has become aware of an article attributed to The Kampala Journal containing false allegations about deductions on all its subscriber Mobile Money wallets of at least 100/=. The article further alleges that these deductions were made to fund political campaigns and in response to the recent “Trump USAID ban.”

MTN MoMo categorically refutes these baseless allegations and clarifies that the deductions in question were made to recover transaction fees that were inadvertently omitted due to a temporary system glitch which occurred on the 8th day of February 2025. This technical issue caused payment fees for certain transactions not to be charged in real time.

Upon identifying this system error, MTN MoMo initiated the recovery of the outstanding transaction fees on the 13th of February 2025 to ensure proper reconciliation. Our customers were notified by SMS and an official communication issued earlier today.

We wish to assure our esteemed subscribers, stakeholders, and the general public that:

MTN Mobile Money Uganda Limited remains a responsible corporate entity committed to providing reliable services and maintaining the trust of its customers. We appreciate your continued support and understanding as we resolve this matter.

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For more information, please contact:
MTN Uganda Press Office: mediadesk.ug@mtn.com

MTN Foundation, in partnership with the Maendeleo Foundation and other key stakeholders, has officially launched the second edition of the Help Children Be Children campaign. This initiative underscores MTN Uganda’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding children in the digital space, creating awareness, and promoting online safety.

Building on the success of the first edition, which focused on raising awareness about child online safety and reporting mechanisms, the second edition takes these efforts further. It introduces enhanced educational tools and initiatives aimed at empowering parents, caregivers, educators, and children with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Speaking at the launch in Mukono, Leah Natukunda Kyanzi, MTN Uganda’s Senior Manager Network Quality and Performance highlighted the organization’s dedication to child online safety. “The internet offers immense opportunities for learning and growth, but it also poses risks, especially for our children. At MTN Uganda, we believe that everybody deserves the benefits of a modern connect life. However, this vision is tempered by the responsibility to protect our most vulnerable users—children—from the potential dangers that accompany digital inclusion, and this campaign reflects that belief. Through education, partnerships, and innovative tools, we are committed to creating a safe online space where children can explore learning opportunities without fear,” she said.

The Help Children Be Children campaign continues to work closely with the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF) to strengthen the Africa-wide online child safety portal, a critical resource for reporting instances of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). The portal is accessible at Child Online Protection | MTN.com, providing a streamlined process for reporting harmful content.

Asia Komukama, the Executive Director of Maendeleo Foundation praised MTN Uganda’s ongoing efforts and commitment to protecting children in the digital age. “This campaign is not just about addressing the challenges of online safety; it’s about building a future where our children can thrive without fear. We applaud MTN Foundation for leading this charge and for its relentless support in making this vision a reality,” she remarked.

For Immediate Release:

MTN Uganda has announced the 25 beneficiaries of the second Phase of the Changemakers initiative, a flagship program under the MTN Foundation. This program is aimed at empowering Ugandan communities by supporting impactful grassroots projects that drive positive change and sustainable development in line with MTN’s Ambition 2025 strategy.

Following a rigorous selection process, 25 outstanding initiatives have been selected as the beneficiaries of Changemakers Phase II that comes with a basket fund of Ugx.500 Million that shall be distributed among the various projects. These projects represent a diverse range of sectors, including education, health, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment, underscoring MTN Uganda’s commitment to inclusive and transformative development.

Unveiled last year while marking 25 years of MTN in Uganda, the MTN Changemakers initiative is a commitment to supporting those who are deeply dedicated to making a significant impact in their communities. All the projects under this initiative are conceived, planned and executed by the communities with support from MTN Foundation.

While speaking about the announcement event that took place in Makerere Kikoni in Kampala this morning, Sylvia Mulinge, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Uganda said that the second phase of Changemakers builds on the success of the initial phase, which saw 25 projects funded across 15 districts, impacting over 165,000 people.

“At MTN, we believe in the potential of Ugandans to transform their communities. Through the Changemakers initiative, we continue to support local solutions that address pressing challenges and create a brighter future for all. Together, we are unstoppable in our drive to make a meaningful impact,” Mulinge said.

Mulinge added that this year’s beneficiaries will receive not only financial support but also mentorship and capacity-building resources to help them achieve long-term sustainability and success.

The announcement was celebrated during a special event, which will also include a Christmas celebration to spread the spirit of joy and gratitude during this festive season.

MTN Uganda extends heartfelt congratulations to all the beneficiaries and looks forward to working together to bring these transformative ideas to life. The Changemakers initiative reaffirms MTN Uganda’s unwavering commitment to bridging gaps and fostering growth, one community at a time.

Selected Projects by Region, project name and what they do

Kampala Central Region

  1. Eco Empower: Recycling plastic bottles into polyester sewing threads for the textile industry.
  2. Dorna Home for Autism: Vocational training for young adults with autism.
  3. Bless a Child Foundation: Support for children with cancer.
  4. Aganza Mobile Library: Enhancing literacy through digital tools.
  5. Teens & Tots Neuro Centre: Focus on children with learning disabilities.

Greater Central Region

Western Region

  1. Uganda Prisons Bushenyi Carpentry Project: Upskilling inmates in carpentry.
  2. Kibale Primary Water Provision: Installation of water tanks for schools.
  3. Tusafishe Project: Water and sanitation improvements in Kyenjojo District.
  4. Greater Katswamba Friends Concern: Sanitation facilities for schools.
  5. Empowering single mothers: Home for children with special needs

Northern Region

  1. Rural Tech Hub for Girls: Promoting digital literacy for young girls.
  2. Inclusive ICT computers: Promoting digital literacy
  3. Protected Springs in Lira: Construction of protected spring wells.
  4. Amuca Sanitation Project: Improved hygiene and waste disposal facilities.
  5. Extension of Piped Water: Provision of clean water in Nebbi District.

Eastern Region

Every 11 minutes, a woman loses her life at the hands of a partner or family member. One in three women globally will experience violence in their lifetime. These stark realities demand urgent action to address gender-based violence (GBV), a crisis that devastates lives, families, and communities across the globe.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a milestone that underscores both the progress achieved and the critical work that remains to create a safer, more equitable world.

In Uganda, GBV continues to impact millions of women and girls, with alarming statistics revealing the magnitude of the issue. A 2021 report by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics showed that 95% of women and girls in the country have experienced violence—whether physical, sexual, emotional, or economic. Intimate partner violence remains particularly prevalent, with 43% of ever-partnered women reporting domestic violence within the past year. Meanwhile, online violence is rising rapidly, with nearly half of Ugandan women facing harassment or exploitation in digital spaces.

In response to this pressing issue, MTN Uganda has joined the 2024 global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign with a steadfast commitment to creating meaningful change. The company is implementing targeted initiatives to raise awareness, support survivors, and empower communities to take collective action.

This year, MTN Uganda’s efforts are focused on creating awareness through community outreach programs, promoting digital safety tools, and forging partnerships with local organisations to foster safer and more inclusive environments for all.

Recognising the importance of engaging all segments of society, MTN Uganda is actively involving men and boys as allies in the fight against GBV. The company believes that dismantling harmful norms and stereotypes is essential to cultivating a culture of respect and equality. By amplifying the voices of positive male role models, MTN Uganda hopes to inspire communities to stand united against GBV.

“Ending gender-based violence requires us all to recognise its connection to broader social injustices and commit to dismantling those systems,” said Nompilo Morafo, MTN Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer. “It demands that we not only speak out against violence but actively work towards a world where every woman and girl is safe, empowered, and free to reach her full potential. MTN is proud to stand in solidarity with organisations and individuals working tirelessly to create a world free from violence. Together, we can amplify the voices of survivors, challenge harmful norms, and build a more equitable future for all.”

Echoing this commitment during the awareness campaign at Smart Girls Foundation, a Not- for-Profit-Organisation that trains and support young girls and women, Bryan Mbasa, Senior Manager, MTN Foundation, called on all stakeholders to take action: “This is not just our responsibility—it is our calling. Let us be the change to end gender-based violence. Every action, big or small, contributes to the movement that’s been 25 years in the making. Speak up, support survivors, and demand change. Together, we can create a future free from violence.”

The 16 Days of Activism campaign serves as a powerful reminder that everyone has a role to play in ending GBV. Whether through participating in local initiatives, sharing resources, or advocating for stronger protections, every effort counts. MTN Uganda invites individuals and communities to join this vital cause by standing with survivors and saying #NoExcuse for violence in all its forms.

For more information about MTN Uganda’s campaign and how to get involved, visit www.mtn.com/16-days-of-activism.  Together, we can create a safer, more equitable world for all.

MTN Uganda has unveiled the MTN Prestige loyalty program, tailored to its high-value customers. As part of MTN’s commitment to elevating customer experiences, the revamped loyalty program offers an array of premium benefits that go beyond the telecom sector, extending into lifestyle, wellbeing, and travel.

Ian Mugambe, MTN Uganda’s Marketing Manager of Devices at the Tecno stall that will be offering exclusive discounts for #MTNPrestige customers.

MTN Prestige members will enjoy preferential treatment at all MTN touchpoints, along with access to exclusive offers, discounts on devices, and priority customer support. The program also provides members with unique products for data, voice, and roaming services, as well as the ability to earn and redeem loyalty points for telecom and non-telecom services.

“MTN Prestige is designed to reward our most valued customers by offering them exclusive privileges and experiences that cater to their individual needs,” said Mackinon Kabarole, Acting Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Uganda. “We are committed to continuously enhancing our loyalty programs, and MTN Prestige is a testament to our drive to create personalized experiences for our customers.”

Members of MTN Prestige will unlock benefits such as access to lifestyle perks, including discounts on travel, beauty, and fashion, as well as VIP invitations to selected MTN-sponsored events. Customers will also have the option to redeem their loyalty points for mobile money through MTN MoMoPay, making it easier to pay for goods and services.

Professor Maggie Kigozi, the Chief Guest, at the launch of MTN Prestige where she thanked MTN Uganda for always putting customers first

To join MTN Prestige, customers are required to meet a minimum monthly spend of UGX 100,000 across MTN services for over 6 months, including mobile money and airtime purchases. Eligible customers will be notified through the MyMTN App, SMS, or a call from the MTN call center to opt into the program. Alternatively, customers can dial *180# to explore exclusive bundle propositions.

The launch of MTN Prestige program underscores MTN’s commitment to creating shared value and fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future by offering enhanced digital and financial services to its customers.

“At the heart of MTN’s Ambition 2025 is our goal to lead digital and financial inclusion across Africa. The introduction of MTN Prestige reflects our promise to deliver long-term value by ensuring that our most loyal customers are rewarded with the very best offers and experiences,” added Kabarole.

Mackinon Kabarole, the Acting Chief Marketing Officer at MTN Uganda at the MTN Prestige Launch

Customers who are part of MTN’s loyalty program Senkyu can also transition to MTN Prestige. MTN Uganda encourages its customers to explore the full range of MTN Prestige benefits by subscribing via the MyMTN App or dialing *180#.

For more information on MTN Prestige, visit https://www.mtn.co.ug/prestige/

MTN Uganda has just announced the launch of MTN Proggie, a new and innovative subscription-based quiz platform that offers customers the chance to explore Uganda and win exciting rewards. This launch is inspired by MTN’s commitment to ensuring that everyone enjoys the benefits of a modern connected life.

MTN Proggie is designed for players looking to challenge their minds with quizzes, puzzles, and interactive games while standing a chance to win incredible prizes. With daily, weekly, and monthly subscription options, the platform is accessible to a wide range of customers.

“At MTN, we believe in the power of connectivity to transform lives, and MTN Proggie is the perfect way for us to engage our customers in a fun, interactive, and rewarding manner,” said Mackinon Kabarole, Acting Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Uganda. “We are excited to introduce this platform as the first of its kind, offering our customers the opportunity to win fantastic prizes while they enjoy challenging and fun games.”

Customers can join the fun by visiting mtnproggie.com and choosing one of three subscription packages:

Once subscribed, users can participate in quizzes, earning points for each correct answer. These points accumulate over time, and the highest scorers stand a chance to win various rewards. For those who want more chances to win, a top-up option of UGX 500 allows players to answer more questions and increase their points tally.

MTN Proggie offers a wide range of exciting rewards for participants, including:

“MTN Proggie is more than just a quiz platform. It’s an opportunity for our customers to engage their minds, have fun, and win incredible prizes that celebrate the beauty and excitement of Uganda. This platform underscores our belief that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life,” Mackinon Kabarole added.

The platform’s engaging, interactive nature provides a solid foundation for future innovation within this space, allowing MTN to continuously offer new ways for customers to connect and have fun.

For more information on how to subscribe and participate, visit mtn.co.ug/proggie. Start playing today and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes while exploring the possibilities of your mind.

Over 100 youth from northern Uganda today graduated with certificates in computer and ICT skills under MTN Uganda’s Digital Literacy Program.

Driven by MTN’s Corporate Social Responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, the initiative aims to empower young people and close the digital divide, serving as a cornerstone of MTN’s mission to foster digital inclusivity across Uganda.

The graduates completed an intensive 10-day training through MTN’s Internet Bus and the MTN Skills Academy—an online platform that delivers digital education to underserved communities.

Held at Gulu University, the training sessions provided critical skills to learners from Gulu City and Kitgum District, equipping them for higher education, entrepreneurial ventures, and employment opportunities.

This follows a similar graduation recently held in Kyenjojo District in western Uganda, where over 570 youth, including 309 women, successfully completed the program.

Since its launch, the Digital Literacy Program has empowered 4,795 youth, with an ambitious goal to reach one million young people by 2025 through the MTN Skills Academy.

“Our digital literacy initiative is a vital part of MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 Strategy, which seeks to drive digital transformation across the nation,” said Philip Odoi, MTN’s Commercial Head for Northern Uganda.

“We believe that all Ugandans, regardless of their economic or social background, should have the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of a connected world.”

Valued at over Shs500 million and provided free of charge, the program is implemented in partnership with the Maendeleo Foundation, a local NGO, as part of a larger effort to support Uganda’s Vision 2040, National Development Plan III, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. These initiatives collectively emphasize inclusivity, equity, and economic empowerment for all Ugandans.

Uganda’s youthful demographic, with over three-quarters of the population under the age of 30, holds immense potential for the country’s future. However, high unemployment rates, particularly among young women, present ongoing challenges.

 “Empowering young people with digital skills is essential not only for their personal growth but also for creating a skilled workforce that will drive Uganda’s economic development and enhance productivity,” Odoi added.

MTN Uganda has also established 57 ICT labs across educational institutions nationwide, benefiting thousands of students. These facilities include six technical institutes, such as Amelo Technical Institute in Adjumani District, St. Simon Peter’s Vocational Training Centre in Hoima District, and St. Daniel Comboni Polytechnic in Moroto District, further supporting the development of technical skills in ICT.

In addition to the certification ceremony, today’s celebration included a learner’s quiz, with top performers awarded laptops and mi-fi devices preloaded with three months of internet access.

This initiative aims to support continued learning and encourage community knowledge-sharing, reinforcing MTN’s commitment to a digitally inclusive Uganda.

The youths are also free to sign up and learn digital skills for digital jobs on the MTN Skills Academy website MTN Skills Academy | Home.

MTN Uganda, through its corporate social responsibility arm, MTN Foundation, is excited to announce its latest initiative to boost digital access and education at St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga. As part of its commitment to empowering youth and bridging the digital divide, MTN Uganda is providing 10 computers, a year of free internet access, and backup power systems, valued at UGX 65 million. 

This initiative aims to support the 392 students aged 13 to 20 at St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga, equipping them with the essential tools needed to thrive in today’s digital landscape. With over three-quarters of Uganda’s population under the age of 30, the youth represent immense potential for the future. However, many young people face barriers to accessing quality education and digital skills, limiting their participation in the modern economy. 

“Today is not just about handing over equipment; it’s about opening doors to knowledge and opportunities for our youth,” said Bryan Mbasa, Senior Manager MTN Foundation 

“We believe that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves the chance to benefit from a modern connected life. This donation is a vital step in empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem solvers.” 

The donation aligns with MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 Strategy, which focuses on driving digital transformation across the country. This initiative also supports Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting digital literacy and capability nationwide. 

New computer lab at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Nyenga courtesy of MTN Uganda.

As part of its Digital Access Program, MTN Uganda is investing over UGX 390 million this year to establish computer labs in various schools and communities across Uganda, including St. Catherine Girls Secondary School and Tunaweza Foundation. St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga proudly joins this list as the third beneficiary, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to quality education since its founding in 1924. Other schools set to benefit from this initiative include Revival Girls in Mbarara District, and St. John’s Secondary School in Sheema District as well as Code Campus a digital literacy community organization operation in the slums of Kampala 

Fr. Eugene Safari, the Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga, expressed gratitude for MTN Uganda’s generous support. “MTN’s commitment to providing us with a fully equipped computer lab truly highlights its dedication to empowering our future leaders with the skills they need to thrive in today’s digital world,” he said. 

 “We are excited that this lab will give our students access to modern technology and digital resources, helping to cultivate a skilled and tech-savvy workforce for a brighter tomorrow.” 

Fr. Dr. Musinya Richard Kayondo, the vicar general of Lugazi Diocese, who doubles as the Chairperson Board of Directors, St Joseph’s Seminary Nyenga, expressed gratitude to MTN for the contribution. He urged seminarians to use the computer lab responsibly. 

Mbasa emphasized that access to technology is only the beginning, stating, “The real impact comes from how students utilize these resources. We encourage both students and teachers to embrace this opportunity to explore, learn, and prepare for their futures.” 

MTN Uganda has long been at the forefront of supporting ICT in education, having established over 57 ICT labs in educational institutions nationwide. This includes six technical institutes, such as Amelo Technical Institute in Adjumani District, St. Simon Peter’s Vocational Training Centre in Hoima District, Millenium Vocational Training Centre in Hoima, Uganda Technical Institute in Masindi, Kasese Polytechnic and St. Daniel Comboni Polytechnic in Moroto District. 

The students are also free to sign up and learn digital skills for digital jobs on the MTN Skills Academy website MTN Skills Academy | Home. 

Lira, Uganda – 18th October 2024 – MTN Uganda has today contributed UGX 10,000,000 in cash, alongside in-kind support, towards the upcoming coronation of Lango’s Paramount Chief Elect, Eng Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune. The coronation is scheduled to take place on 2nd November 2024, marking a significant cultural event for the Lango Chiefdom and its people.

The handover ceremony, held today, signifies MTN Uganda’s commitment to work with communities through supporting activities and institutions which bring people together like kingdoms.. In addition to its contribution, MTN Uganda has launched a dedicated MoMo merchant code (705559) for Lango’s subjects and well-wishers to make their donations towards the coronation and the Lango Cultural Institution. These contributions will play a key role in the event preparations and in supporting the Kingdom’s cultural initiatives.

MTN Uganda has contributed towards the coronation of Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune as the Paramount Chief of the Lango Cultural Institution.

Phillip Odoi, Northern Region Commercial Head at MTN Uganda, expressed the company’s commitment to the Lango Kingdom, helping to ensure the success of this momentous occasion saying, “We are deeply honoured to contribute towards the coronation of His Highness Eng Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune. This contribution underscores our dedication to the Lango Kingdom and its people. As we work together towards the coronation on 2nd November, we encourage the people of Lango to unite in support of this historic occasion by making their contributions through the MTN MoMo merchant code 705559.”

MTN Uganda’s partnership with the Lango Kingdom aligns with its corporate philosophy of shared value, where collaboration with cultural institutions plays a vital role in fostering the socio-economic development of communities. The company has supported various cultural institutions in Uganda, including Bunyoro Kitara, Tooro, Ker Alur, Ker Kwaro (Acholi), and Busoga Kingdoms.

Bosco Ogwang Ebola, the clan head for Omolo Atar Odiakol, thanked MTN Uganda for their generosity and called upon the people of Lango to participate in the preparations. “We are grateful to MTN Uganda for their substantial support towards the coronation of our Paramount Chief Elect. This contribution is a significant boost to the efforts of the Lango Cultural Institution. We encourage all our subjects and well-wishers to join hands and contribute towards this celebration by using the MTN MoMo merchant code 705559.”

As the preparations for the coronation continue, MTN Uganda remains steadfast in its support for the Kingdom and is excited to play a key role in this cultural milestone. The Lango chiefdom’s rich traditions and history will be celebrated on 2nd November, with MTN Uganda standing alongside its people to ensure a successful event.

Ker Alur youths ready to participate in the 10km bicycle rides as they compete in 3rd editions of bicycle race .

Nebbi, Uganda — With the 14th coronation anniversary of Ubimu Phillips Olarker Rauni III of Ker Alur fast approaching, the final whistle has blown on the 3rd edition of regional bicycle races, a key event designed to bring youths together across the Ker Alur Kingdom. Winners from all three counties have been awarded for their outstanding performances, while excitement continues to build ahead of the grand finale.

MTN Uganda and Ker Alur have partnered to organize both the 7th edition of the Kopu P’Ubimu football tournament and the regional bicycle races, aiming to foster unity and cultural pride within the community. These events are part of the lead-up to the coronation anniversary, set for October 26th, 2024, at Bar Omach.

Final Battles Await

The bicycle race finalists from each county will go head-to-head at Pajobi in Pakwach Town Council for the ultimate prize. Meanwhile, the Kopu P’Ubimu football tournament final between Padyere and Jonam Counties will take place at Pacego Playground, Panyango Sub-County, on October 19th, adding another layer of excitement to the build-up.

Ker Alur’s Executive Director, Vincent Ochaya, emphasized the importance of discipline during the finals. “As Ker Alur, we will not tolerate any acts of indiscipline that could tarnish the image of Alur culture. These activities are meant to foster social cohesion and promote our rich cultural heritage,” Ochaya said.

The 10-kilometer regional races saw fierce competition, with participants pushing their limits for cash prizes. Charity Andhu came out on top in Padyere’s female race, securing the grand prize of UGX 500,000, while Jenifer Akumu and Teopita Anego followed as the 1st and 2nd runner-ups, taking home UGX 200,000 and UGX 100,000, respectively.

In the male category, Victor Ofoirwoth emerged victorious, pocketing UGX 500,000, with Bright Onegiu securing second place and Stephen Jatic-Ongeyo taking third, earning UGX 200,000 and UGX 100,000, respectively.

Bigger Stakes in the Final

MTN Uganda’s Territory Sales Manager, Godwin Taban, praised the cultural significance of these sporting activities and expressed the company’s commitment to cultural institutions across the country. “We are proud to support these initiatives, and as we reach the climax of the sporting activities in Ker Alur, the finalists from all three counties will compete for even bigger prizes,” said Taban.

The stakes will be high in the upcoming final, with the winner of the bicycle race set to receive a whopping UGX 1.5 million, the 1st runner-up taking home UGX 700,000, and the 2nd runner-up pocketing UGX 500,000.

“We are committed to building strong social and business networks with cultural institutions through events like these, which not only promote culture but also create lasting relationships,” Taban added.

As the 14th coronation anniversary of Ubimu Phillips Olarker Rauni III approaches, both the Kopu P’Ubimu football tournament and the regional bicycle races are set to conclude with thrilling finales, celebrating sport, culture, and community unity across the Alur Kingdom.