Commonly known as Simu Klear, the new platform represents a major milestone in the country’s fight against the use of fraudulent and unsafe communication gadgets that compromise both user security and network integrity.

The official launch took place in Kampala, drawing representatives from government agencies, mobile network operators, traders’ associations, and the media — all united in supporting UCC’s renewed commitment to secure Uganda’s communications landscape.

While unveiling the system, Mr. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director of UCC, described Simu Klear as a “technological and social revolution” aimed at protecting Ugandans from the dangers of counterfeit mobile devices.

“The Central Equipment Identity Register — or as I prefer to call it, Simu Klear — is a groundbreaking centralized system designed to protect consumers, secure communication networks, and strengthen public trust in our digital ecosystem,” said Mr. Thembo.

“The name itself, Simu Klear, is local slang for anything authentic. It’s a fitting name because this system will help us distinguish between genuine and fake devices.”

The CEIR operates as a national database that records and verifies the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of all mobile devices used in Uganda. Through this registry, UCC can identify, block, and disable stolen or counterfeit phones from operating on any network in the country.

Mr. Thembo noted that under Section 51 of the UCC Act (2013), the Commission is mandated to protect the interests of consumers and operators by ensuring the quality and safety of communication services and devices.

“For many years, our market has been infiltrated by counterfeit gadgets,” he explained. “These devices compromise health and safety, degrade network quality, and make it difficult for regulators and law enforcement to trace criminals who use them for fraud.”

He emphasized that Simu Klear is not just a technological tool, but a powerful consumer protection weapon.

“With this system, we can prevent the importation, sale, and use of stolen or counterfeit communication devices,” he said. “If your phone is stolen and you report it, it becomes useless to the thief.”

Mr. Thembo issued a humorous warning to phone thieves that;

“To those who have been stealing and reselling phones, I advise you to change your business model. Go to Kasanda District, get some PDM money, and start growing tomatoes or cabbages. Because this business of stealing phones for resale — it’s ending today.”

The Executive Director revealed that the success of the project is built on close collaboration with key partners, including the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), mobile network operators, and traders represented by the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA).

Through joint awareness campaigns, these partners have educated consumers about the dangers of counterfeit devices and the benefits of buying genuine ones.

“Today’s launch marks not just a technical upgrade,” he said, “but the culmination of a sustained campaign to protect Ugandans and preserve the integrity of our communications environment.”

How Simu Klear Works

Eng. Muheki Wasago, the Senior Officer for Service Development at UCC, demonstrated how the system functions and how consumers can use it to verify their devices.

“You can access the Simu Klear platform by visiting simu.ucc.co.ug on your computer, tablet, or phone,” Eng. Wasago explained. “We have designed it to be simple and user-friendly.”

He outlined the system’s main features, which include:

Know Your Device – Consumers can check whether a phone is genuine by entering its IMEI number, which can be found on the phone packaging or by dialing *#06#.
Know Your Numbers – Users who create accounts can see all mobile numbers registered under their National ID across all networks, ensuring transparency and security.
Report Fraud – Victims of mobile or online fraud can report incidents by filling in a simple form and attaching evidence such as screenshots or call logs. Each report is tracked using a unique reference number.
Report Lost or Stolen Devices – Once a phone is lost or stolen, users can report it online after securing a police report. The device can then be blocked or tracked across all networks.
Certified Vendors – The platform will also list verified phone vendors across the country, helping consumers identify legitimate sellers in their area.
“Before purchasing a phone — especially from the secondary market — verify it using the system,” Eng. Wasago advised. “We are not against secondhand phones, but we must ensure they are legitimate.”

Consumers can also check device authenticity by dialing *197*4# on their phones.

Ms. Julianne Mweheire, UCC’s Director of Content Development and Industry Affairs, praised the launch as the culmination of years of hard work and innovation.

“We began efforts for the CEIR in 2018,” she said. “In the last two years, we’ve made tremendous progress in developing systems that safeguard our consumers and enhance trust in our digital environment.”

She emphasized that the CEIR is not just a database, but a powerful national security tool that will transform Uganda’s approach to digital safety.

“By creating this centralized repository of IMEI numbers, we empower mobile operators and users to swiftly identify and block illicit or stolen devices,” Ms. Mweheire explained. “This will reduce fraud, minimize financial losses, and build public trust in our communications systems.”

She described mobile phones as “our banks, our memories, and our offices,” underscoring the importance of securing them.

“Imagine a future where stolen phones are useless and counterfeit phones are completely eliminated. That is the future we are building with Simu Klear,” she said.

Ms. Mweheire revealed that UCC is working closely with URA, commercial banks, and KACITA to ensure the system benefits all sectors.

The integration will help URA with accurate classification of imported devices, assist banks in addressing SIM swap fraud and phone-related theft, and support traders in maintaining a clean and trusted mobile device market.

“Together with all our partners, we are launching an era of secure connectivity,” she said. “Every Ugandan has a role to play — report stolen devices, verify phones before buying, and embrace this system as your protection in the digital age.”

The Simu Klear initiative is expected to significantly reduce mobile phone theft and counterfeit trade in Uganda, ensuring that all devices operating within the country meet approved standards.

The system aligns with international best practices, positioning Uganda as a regional leader in communication security and consumer protection.

“This is about more than just phones. It’s about building trust in our communications, protecting Ugandan consumers, and securing our digital future,” Mr. Thembo noted.

How to Access Simu Klear:

Visit simu.ucc.co.ug
Dial *197*4# to verify your device
Report lost or stolen phones via the website or at any mobile service center after obtaining a police report