Despite UCC assurances that the internet will remain operational during elections, past experiences suggest caution is still warranted. This is UG.
During the 2021 general elections, the internet shutdown caught many by surprise. When it occurred, it did more than cut off WhatsApp, Twitter, and Facebook. Mobile money services were disrupted, transport slowed, work was affected, and simple daily tasks became unexpectedly difficult. In some areas, the shutdown even triggered knock-on effects on power and water supply as coordination broke down.
Drawing on past experiences, from Kenya’s 2007 post-election violence to Uganda’s 2021 election period, here are some essentials to help you prepare for a possible government-imposed internet blackout and the uncertainties leading up to January 15.
#1. Have Cash Money
When the internet goes down, disruption in mobile money transactions often follow. ATMs may work inconsistently or run out of cash, especially as early readers of this article might have already made withdrawals, jokes aside. Panic and pressure among locals often lead shops to prefer cash over card swipes and merchant payments. Taxi conductors and Boda Boda riders will almost certainly insist on cash, and do not be surprised if fuel stations refuse digital payments.
In short, withdraw enough money to cover food, transport, and emergencies for several days. Breaking it into smaller notes can be helpful. At this point, you may be wondering, ‘Is it really that serious?’ Well, you never know!
#2. Stock Food and Store Water
Supply chains rarely function normally during shutdowns. Many shops close early, while others raise prices to stay open. Internet outages also impede both reporting and restoring water services. Even if you have NWSC’s support number, staff may not be able to respond promptly, often deferring action to some distant Monday after the election season.
Fill several jerrycans with clean water in case taps run dry!
Without overbuying, you still need cash, stock non-perishable foods you regularly consume, such as rice, beans, posho, and other items that can last several days without refrigeration. Include cooking essentials like cooking oil, groceries, charcoal, and a matchbox in case your gas cylinder runs out.
#3. Prepare For Power Issues
It is UEDCL, baby! Power cuts during that time will surely feel longer when you cannot check updates or contact anyone. A charged power bank will keep your phone operational for calls, offline notes, and emergency contacts.
Rechargeable lamps or solar lights are more reliable, but if it is candles you use, keep them out of children’s reach. If you work from home, keep your laptop charged.
#4. Download or Hire Movie CDs and Plan Offline Entertainment
No internet; No Netflix or MunoWatch. No online gaming, social media scrolling, or Spotify and Apple Music streaming.
Download movies, documentaries, podcasts, or music in advance. YouTube Premium and most streaming services allow offline downloads. Alternatively, content can be downloaded and saved via Telegram or torrent sites to a hard drive or phone. Locally translated VJ movie CDs can be sourced from local video libraries, though a DVD player is required.
Maintaining an active satellite TV subscription is the simplest alternative, as blackouts barely affect TV stations.
For readers, saving PDFs, articles, or study materials in advance facilitates offline engagement. Living with family? Investing a small amount in indoor games such as Ludo or cards can help pass the time.
#5. Be Where You Need to Be Early
Travel often becomes unpredictable and hard to navigate during this period. Ride-hailing apps such as SafeBoda, Uber, and Farasi will not be in business as they all require an internet connection. With security checkpoints and military pressure from the government, fuel access is also expected to tighten.
Voters travelling to their home districts are advised to complete these journeys before the anticipated internet shutdown in the final week leading up to January 15. While travel may still be possible during the shutdown, early planning helps minimise disruptions.
#6. Save Important Contacts and Documents Offline
Do not rely on cloud access. Save important phone contacts locally or record them on paper. Ensure copies of your ID, medical records, and essential documents are downloaded or screenshotted for offline access.
#7. Adjust Expectations and Routines
Inform clients, supervisors, and colleagues in advance, if necessary, complete urgent tasks beforehand, and set realistic goals for the shutdown period.
