UCC Takes SIMU CLEAR Campaign to Pader to Combat Counterfeit Phones

13 February 2025, 13:16

By Odongo James Patrick

PADER – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, brought its SIMU CLEAR campaign to Pader Bus Park as part of a nationwide effort to combat counterfeit mobile phones.

Following unsuccessful attempts to disable fake devices, UCC has shifted its focus to consumer education, urging Ugandans to verify the authenticity of mobile phones before purchasing them. The campaign, which was in Nwoya District on February 10, reached Pader on February 11 and is set to continue in Lamwo before heading to Amuru District.

Speaking to our reporter, Amito Janifer, a staff member at UCC, emphasized that the commission aims to educate as many Ugandans as possible before enforcing the complete removal of counterfeit phones from circulation.

Residents of Pader welcomed the initiative, highlighting the need for increased awareness about the dangers of using substandard mobile devices.

“Many people unknowingly buy fake phones, which not only fail quickly but also pose security risks. This campaign is timely,” said one resident.

The campaign is expected to continue across various districts as UCC intensifies efforts to protect consumers from the risks associated with counterfeit mobile phones, including poor network connectivity, rapid battery drainage, and cyber vulnerabilities.

A 2020 UCC report revealed that Uganda had 29.1 million mobile phones, with a significant number being counterfeit. The SIMU CLEAR initiative aims to curb this issue by ensuring that Ugandans access genuine, high-quality mobile devices.