A comprehensive survey conducted by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has revealed that 34 percent of Ugandans own counterfeit mobile phones, with approximately 6.4 million out of 19 million surveyed users possessing devices with duplicated International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers not recognized in the Global System for Mobile Communications. The finding emerges as several African nations are implementing stricter mobile device authentication measures to combat the proliferation of counterfeit devices.
The survey, conducted as part of the SIMU KLEAR campaign between February 2022 and February 2025, examined mobile device usage across Uganda’s four geographical regions, targeting approximately 27 million mobile device subscribers. The initiative follows similar efforts in other African nations, including enhanced authentication systems being deployed across the continent to combat digital fraud and ensure device legitimacy.
Among the brands examined, itel phones represented over 32 percent of devices, followed by Tecno phones at 45 percent, Samsung at 19 percent, and iPhones at 6 percent, with other brands accounting for 3 percent. The market presents significant price variations, with non-smartphones ranging from Shs35,000 to Shs100,000 and smartphones from Shs150,000 to Shs700,000. Premium devices from established retailers can reach Shs10 million.
Alphonse Okumu, a second-hand phone dealer, noted that customers frequently opt for cheaper devices despite potential legitimacy concerns, citing that lower import taxes facilitate trade in these devices. The pattern reflects broader regional challenges in mobile device authentication and security, particularly as mobile banking malware and security threats continue to rise globally.
The UCC has implemented a verification system allowing users to check device legitimacy by dialing *197#, similar to systems being adopted in other nations like Sri Lanka’s upcoming mandatory IMEI registration program. The commission has collaborated with multiple stakeholders, including the Anti-Counterfeit Network, Uganda Revenue Authority, Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), and Kampala City Traders Association, along with telecommunication companies and consumer bodies.
The survey recommendations include implementing stricter UNBS regulations on imported device standards and enhancing border control measures for devices from unverified sources. These measures are part of growing regional efforts to secure mobile communications infrastructure and protect consumers from potentially compromised devices.
Sources: PML Daily
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