Kampala, Uganda -February 20, 2025: The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has launched a crackdown on the illegal importation, sale, and installation of internet streaming devices used to access premium content ideally meant for Multichoice’s digital service subscription models on DSTV.
The UCC’s investigation, prompted by Multichoice’s claims that there exists free trade in illegal devices/ decoders used to broadcast Supersport and Bein channels, confirmed the widespread availability of these devices, in violation of the Multichoice broadcasting rights in Uganda.
From its licence and copyright documents, Multichoice holds exclusive rights to broadcast SuperSport channels on only DSTV decoders within Uganda, and access is by monthly subscription. According to Multi choice, this is a right being directly infringed upon by the proliferation of these illegal streaming services.
In the letter to the Executive Director, Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), UCC confirmed it’s investigation teams identified numerous brands and models of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) set boxes including Starsat 2090HD Extreme, Mediastar MS-MIINI IIIII Forever, Senator, Red Tiger digital satellite receiver, Digisat DX Mini combo, Senator Tiktok Pro forever, Senator Ice 2+ 1080 MiniHD, Sunplus receivers etc. These devices, primarily imported from Dubai but manufactured in China, which enable users to illegally stream content, including popular sports channels like SuperSport and Bein, effectively bypassing Multichoice’s subscription model.
“From the statistics presented by DSTV, the investigation ascertained that residential and commercial piracy had enormous impact on revenue with a grand total cost as being UGX2.74BN per year to Multichoice and Uganda at large..” part of the letter from UCC inviting UNBS and stakeholders including URSB to discuss the matter, reads.
The UCC’s actions are mandated by Section 5(1)(j) of the Uganda Communications Act Cap 103, which empowers them to investigate and combat such infringements. The commission’s preliminary findings have validated Multichoice’s claims, confirming the detrimental impact of these illegal devices on their operations and revenue streams.
The crackdown is expected to intensify as the UCC, URSB and UNBS works to protect property rights and ensure a fair and competitive broadcasting landscape in Uganda. The commission is also tasked with raising public awareness about the illegality of these devices and the potential consequence
This move by the UCC signals a strong stance against copyright infringement and underscores its commitment to safeguarding the interests of licensed broadcasters in Uganda. The outcome of this crackdown will be closely watched by stakeholders in the broadcasting industry, as it could set a precedent for future enforcement actions against illegal streaming services.