Airtel Introduces new OTT Data bundles

Airtel Uganda has launched Uganda’s first-ever data OTT packs that will enable subscribers to enjoy undisrupted connectivity by simply subscribing once and getting both data and OTT of the same validity.

Data OTT packs combine data and OTT Tax by maintaining the same data volumes of the selected bundles and simply adding OTT Tax to them. When an Airtel Uganda customer subscribes to this Data OTT pack, they will get a data bundle combined with OTT of the same validity as the bundle pack purchased. For example; daily 15MB will be purchased at UGX450 and it will include UGX250 for the 15MB plus UGX200 for the daily OTT – both valid for 24hours.

Commenting about the new product, Airtel Uganda Managing Director Mr. V.G. Somasekhar noted that, “Gone are the days when subscribers had data but could not connect because they had not paid their OTT and vice versa. With these new packs, we are bringing convenience to our subscribers whether they prefer daily, weekly or monthly data packs.”

“This is the first offering of this sort in Uganda and we are proud to lead the way when it comes to providing our subscribers with affordable, convenient and innovative telecommunications solutions,” he added.

This announcement comes on the heels of a directive from Uganda Revenue Authority, the tax body in Uganda, which changed OTT validity to 24 hours. Airtel Uganda also recently added more options to the OTT menu giving subscribers the ability to pay their taxes on a quarterly and annual basis.

Social media tax is here, what next for Uganda

Excise duty tax on “Over The Top” services popularly referred to as social media tax is here.  Effective July 1, the tax was levied on all social media users.  In response to the levy, MTN Uganda has scrapped the popular social media data bundles; SWIFT ( Snap chat, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter) and WTF (WhatsApp,  Twitter, Facebook) .

Users will however access internet service through the usual procedure to activate data bundles from as low as Shs250.

Social media users are expected to pay Shs200 per day to access social media sites.

What is next for Ugandan business that has grown because of social media platforms?