Request For Comments On The Application For Transper Of License From Wananchi Group (Holdings) Limited To Axian Telecom Fibre Limited tender job at Uganda Communications Commission (UCC)

The Uganda Communication Commission (the Commission) was established under section 4 of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103 (the Act), as the regulator of the communications sector in Uganda with mandate to among others monitor, inspect, licence, supervise, control, promote and safeguard interests of consumers and providers of communications services in Uganda.

Wananchi Group (Holding) Limited currently owns majority shares and control in three operators in the communications sector in Uganda, to wit: Simbanet Uganda Limited (SUL), which holds two Regional Public Infrastructure Provider licenses in Central and Western Uganda and a National Public Service Provider License, Wananchi Cable Uganda Limited (WCUL), which holds two regional Public Infrastructure Provider and Public Services Provider licenses in both the central and western regions, and Wananchi Group (Holdings) Ltd (WGHL), which provides National broadcasting services under the branch name ZUKU TV.

In accordance with section 43 of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103, and Regulation 102 of the Uganda Communications (licensing) Regulations, 2010, Simbanet Uganda Limited, Wananchi Cable Uganda Limited and Wananchi Group Uganda Limited applied to the Commission for approval of transfer of their licenses by way of change in control from Wananchi Group (Holding) Limited to Axian Telecom Fibre Limited.

If approved, the proposed transaction will result in Axian Telecom Fibre Limited acquiring 69.3% shares in Wananchi Group (Holdings) Ltd, and consequently, gain majority control in Simbanet Uganda Limited, Wananchi Cable Uganda Limited and Wananchi Group Uganda Limited.

Axian Telecom Fiber Limited is also the majority shareholder in Tower Co. Africa Limited, which currently holds a National Public Infrastructure Provider (NPF) in Uganda.

In accordance with section 39(2) (d) of the Act, the Commission is required to consider public interest before determining whether or not to approve the proposed transfer of licenses.

The public is therefore requested to provide written comments, if any, regarding the aforesaid applications.

Comments should be sent to legallicensing uccc.co.ug or to the address below within fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice.

UCANDA COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

• UCC House

• Plot 42- 44 Spring Road, Bugoloki

• P. O. Box 7376 KAMRALA

• Phone: + 256 414 339000, +256 312 339000

• Email: uccuccc.co.ug,

• Website: www.uccc.co.ug