Even though not so popular at home or public places like restaurants, WiFi is another way of accessing the internet in Uganda. But do you pay OTT tax on WiFi? Short answer is NO, but it’s more complicated than that. The ordinary Joe doesn’t really understand how WiFi works except that it’s this wireless connection or hotspot that they can alternatively use to access the internet. This is obviously halt-true. Not all WiFi networks have or even should have internet access.
WiFi from mobile Hotspot or MiFi
If you are accessing internet created from mobile hotspot or MiFi or 4G LTE Router, you will have to pay that OTT tax. That’s because the data source link is over the mobile networks which are required to charge OTT tax. The good news if multiple people are connected to your mobile hotspot or MiFi, you only have to pay once via the Simcard on the phone or MiFi.
WiFi from Office internet
Those who are connecting to WiFi through their workplaces might not have to pay OTT tax. That’s because enterprise users or your company doesn’t access the internet the same way you do on your phone. They primarily use either Fibre, WiMax, copper wire or something else…rarely Mobile 4G LTE. Related posts: 5 Worthwhile Ugandan Internet Service providers (ISP) for Small business owners According to source I spoke to that works with one of business Internet Service Providers in Uganda, the government has failed to make them enforce the tax. And there are multiple arguments to this; first most workplaces in Uganda block social media sites anywhere in order to make their employees productive during work hours. Secondly some companies have VPNs installed on their networks way before the OTT tax was even introduced. However, if you work with a small company that uses 4G LTE internet, chances that you will have to either individually pay that OTT tax or the company coperately pays it for everyone.
WiFi from public place e.g restaurant or Hotel
If you are accessing WiFi from public place, chances are you might not need to pay the OTT tax too. I used Cafa javas, Java House and Entebbe Airport WiFi without having to Pay OTT tax to access social media. Again as explained above, it’s usually because of the internet provider they use or if they have paid the tax on your behalf. The town-side of course is we all know how public WiFi in Uganda sucks. In conclusion, as a rule of thumb; if you created the wireless hotspot, you have to pay the OTT tax, if you didn’t most likely you won’t have pay.
