Airtel responds to data usage complaints after Bebe Cool, Azawi complaints

It was launched by the Head of Information Technology and Security, Uganda Communications Commission, Michael Bamwesigye and Manoj urali, Airtel Uganda’s Managing Director, at the Airtel Head Office at Clement Hill Road.

“The Data Usage Manager is just one way we're committed to providing you with the tools and information you need to get the most out of your Airtel Uganda experience,” said Mr Manoj.

The new tool was launched at the Airtel offices in Kampala on Monday, March 25 pulse uganda

“In today’s digital era, data has become a necessity in fostering communication, driving economic growth, education, health, and overall access to vital services. We are therefore proud to play a role in shaping Uganda’s digital future.”

Airtel's 'vanishing data'

Airtel has over the years faced fierce complaints about “vanishing” mobile data.

Many Ugandans including top celebrities have spoken out against the company after failing to get proper explanations on how their GBs of data got depleted in a matter of hours.

Weeks ago, singer Azawi took to social media to complain about Airtel’s “outrageously expensive and inefficient internet services.”

She revealed how 22 GB of data that she had purchased had elapsed within two days without her streaming anything.

Bebe Cool, another musician took it a step further by threatening to challenge the telecom in courts of law.

He said in his letter of intention to sue, that after using the Tiktok app for less than two hours, his data had dropped from 22GB to just 5GB.

The Gagamel Entertainment boss demanded to be compensated with Shs 200 million by the company.

During yesterday's launch, Michael Bamwesigye, the Head of Information Technology and Security at UCC commended Airtel Uganda for its proactive approach to addressing consumer concerns related to mobile data usage.

He said, “I am excited about this launch and for us at the Commission, this shows a commitment that Airtel Uganda is listening to its customers and the public outcry that has been ongoing, especially about data usage. I’m sure you’ve seen all of our social media users constantly complain about their data depleting fast and without any explanation on how it has been used.

“This is a step in the right direction and I believe that this goes long way in improving the customer experience as well as the customer journey on Airtel Uganda’s services and platform. So, we congratulate you and we thank you for listening to customers and listening to their cries and responding in that direction.” Bamwesigye concluded.

According to the UCC Market Report for June 2023 FY 4Q 2022/23, the predominant force fueling internet adoption in the country remains the proliferation of smartphones, accounting for 99% of the total new connections across both mobile phones and other mobile internet devices.

The report also stated that mobile internet subscriptions registered a 7 million increase from 11.8 million in March 2023 to 12.5 million in June 2023.