Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister of ICT and National Guidance, has announced an initiative to investigate telecommunications companies regarding the ongoing use of unregistered mobile phone SIM cards, a practice linked to increasing instances of fraud and crime. This move follows concerns raised by Hon. Sarah Ameede, the woman MP for Butebo district, who reported that local residents have been targeted by fraudsters using these unregistered numbers for extortion.

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) had previously mandated the mass registration of SIM cards in 2013 to address crime concerns. However, Minister Baryomunsi expressed dissatisfaction with the assurances provided by telecom companies, which claim that only registered numbers are in use. He noted, “I will engage with the telecommunications companies again, as evidence shows that unregistered numbers are still accessible.”

During a parliamentary session on September 19, 2024, Ameede recounted troubling incidents in her district where individuals impersonating agents of a war victims’ association exploited residents by promising government compensation in exchange for money. She called for government action to eradicate these fraudulent activities.

Supporting Baryomunsi’s call for accountability, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Marksons Oboth, proposed that the Uganda Communications Act be reviewed to introduce penalties for telecom companies found distributing unregistered SIM cards. He emphasized the security threats posed by such practices, pointing out that criminals often use these untraceable numbers to coordinate illicit activities.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa endorsed the suggestion for punitive measures, drawing parallels with financial institutions that incur significant fines for facilitating money laundering. Lawmakers echoed these sentiments, sharing personal experiences with fraud related to unregistered SIM cards.

Hon. Andrew Ojok (NRM, Omoro County) proposed launching a nationwide awareness campaign to educate citizens about identifying fraudulent schemes, underscoring the need for a comprehensive strategy to tackle this urgent issue.