Free-to-Air Channels Uganda (2025 Update): Decoder Prices and Where to Buy Genuine Devices

BY David Okwii

2025 Update: If you want to watch TV in Uganda without monthly fees, Free-to-Air (FTA) channels are still your best option in 2025. Here’s what you need to know to get started, avoid fakes, and enjoy all the local content you want.

Popular Free-to-Air Channels in Uganda (2025)

  • UBC TV
  • NTV Uganda
  • Bukedde TV 1 & 2
  • NBS TV
  • BBS Terefayina
  • Spark TV
  • TV West
  • Channel 44
  • Salt TV
  • Baba TV
  • Top TV
  • Urban TV
  • And more (channel list may vary by region and signal strength)

Genuine FTA Decoder Prices in 2025

Most FTA decoders cost between UGX 70,000 and UGX 120,000. If a price is much lower, be cautious—it could be a fake or non-compliant device.

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Where to Buy: UCC-Approved Vendors

Always buy from vendors licensed by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and selling DVT-T2 compliant decoders. Here’s how to check:

What to Look For in a Genuine Decoder

  • DVT-T2 compliance (the latest digital TV standard in Uganda)
  • Signet or UCC logo on the device/packaging
  • Receipt and warranty from the vendor

FTA vs. Pay TV: What’s the Difference?

FTA decoders: One-time purchase, no monthly fees, access to all local free channels.

Pay TV decoders (DStv, GOtv, Startimes, Azam): Require ongoing subscription for both premium and free channels. If your subscription lapses, you may lose access to even the free channels.

For more details, see:

Final Tips:

  • Always ask for a demo before buying.
  • Keep your receipt and warranty.
  • Share your experiences or questions in the comments—your feedback helps others!

For more on Uganda’s digital TV migration, see Digital TV Migration in Uganda: A beginner’s guide.

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