As a technology professional in Uganda, I have seen how deeply the internet is woven into everyday business and social life. At VINAStech, an IT firm offering consultancy, IT support, web and system development, digital marketing, and computerized accounting, internet access is central to almost everything we do. It supports communication with clients, enables online payments, powers digital marketing, and allows teams to work efficiently across locations.
When internet access is disrupted, even for a short time, the effects go far beyond inconvenience. Productivity slows, transactions stop, trust is shaken, and costs rise quickly. Internet shutdowns, whether intentional or accidental, carry a heavy economic price that deserves careful and balanced discussion.
How internet shutdowns happen
From a technical point of view, internet shutdowns can be carried out in several ways. Authorities may direct internet service providers (ISPs) to switch off key network links, resulting in a complete blackout. In other cases, access is restricted through blocking specific platforms, filtering domain names, or slowing traffic using deep packet inspection.
These measures can be nationwide or limited to certain regions or services. While they may be intended to address short-term concerns such as security or public order, they also interrupt the digital systems that modern economies rely on.
The global economic impact
Globally, internet shutdowns have caused enormous financial losses. According to estimates by Top10VPN, internet disruptions in 2025 alone cost the global economy about $19.7 billion, affecting nearly 800 million people across 28 countries. Russia recorded the highest losses at $11.9 billion, followed by Venezuela at $1.91 billion and Myanmar at $1.89 billion. Pakistan lost an estimated $1.13 billion, while countries in Sub-Saharan Africa together lost about $1.11 billion, with Tanzania accounting for nearly $890 million of that figure.
Looking back to 2021, a year marked by elections and political tensions worldwide, 51 internet shutdowns in 22 countries cost about $5.62 billion, according to NetBlocks. Myanmar alone lost around $2.8 billion that year. These estimates are based on lost economic output, including the digital economy, which contributes between 15% and 24% of GDP in many countries (NetBlocks Cost of Shutdown Tool).
These figures show that shutdowns affect not just governments or large companies, but entire economies—especially in developing countries where digital growth is still fragile.
Uganda’s 2021 experience
Uganda’s nationwide internet shutdown during the January 2021 general elections offers a clear local example. For about five days, internet access was largely unavailable, affecting more than 17.5 million subscribers, according to the Internet Society.
The economic cost of that shutdown is estimated at $9–10 million, or roughly UGX 33–37 billion at the time. Key services such as mobile money, online banking, e-commerce platforms, and prepaid electricity systems were disrupted. Health service providers that rely on digital platforms also struggled to operate.
At VINAStech, our work slowed significantly. Client communications were interrupted, digital campaigns were paused, and project timelines were pushed back. Small businesses and informal traders were hit even harder, as many depend on mobile payments and social media to reach customers.
Beyond the immediate losses, such disruptions can weaken confidence in digital systems and discourage investment in technology-based businesses.
Is Uganda prepared for future disruptions?
Uganda has made progress in strengthening its digital infrastructure. Telecom companies have invested heavily in network expansion, including the rollout of 5G sites. Government officials and regulators have also publicly emphasized the importance of maintaining internet access and improving service delivery.
Many businesses are now more aware of digital risks and are adopting backup strategies such as offline data storage, alternative communication tools, and diversified payment options. However, challenges remain. The digital divide between urban and rural areas is still wide, and high data costs continue to limit access for many users.
In my view, real preparedness goes beyond infrastructure. It includes open dialogue, policy consistency, digital literacy, and exploring alternative connectivity options such as satellite internet. Stability and innovation grow best in an environment where access to information is reliable and predictable.
Way forward
Internet shutdowns are often justified as temporary measures, but their long-term economic and social costs are significant. They disrupt businesses, slow innovation, and affect ordinary citizens who depend on digital services for income, health, and communication.
From my experience in Uganda’s tech sector, reliable internet access is not a luxury; it is a foundation for growth. Learning from past shutdowns, both at home and abroad, can help policymakers, businesses, and citizens find better ways to protect stability without undermining progress.
In the end, a connected society is better positioned to solve problems, grow its economy, and build trust. Keeping the internet on helps ensure that technology remains a bridge to opportunity, not a barrier.
The writer is the team Leader at VINAStech
