The communications regulator is putting in place new standards to ensure proper usage of short messaging codes. Short codes are those issued to firms which are involved in operations of bulk text messaging.

These massages could be from communication companies or private companies that use the services of the telecoms as platforms to send out bulk messages to clients.

Mr Fred Otunnu, the Uganda Communications Commission publicist, said the exercise is in line with the regulator’s need to streamline the bulk messaging process.

The move comes on the back of several complaints from telecom subscribers who often receive unwanted messages that have become an irritant.

“Users of short codes are now more than we anticipated. We want to put in place proper regulations to ensure efficient usage,” Mr Otuunu said.

Reacting to the move, Mr Simon Kaheru, the SMS Media managing director, said UCC’s move was a welcome measure, however, he said: “I expect it to be fair and beneficial to all parties involved.”

Ms Justina Ntabgoba, the MTN Uganda corporate affairs manager, said the telecom would support the measure and there was nothing to lose since it does not directly affect them.

Mr Donald Nyakairu, the Utl acting managing director, said the move was timely, as there is need to streamline the short codes services for better communication.

He said indeed the sector had grown and it had become susceptible to misuse thus the need to streamline its operations.

From: Monitor

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