A deployment model for telecom operators: a case of eSIM technology in Uganda

Abstract

Motivation: The study aims to address the slow adoption rate of eSIM technology in Uganda. This adoption rate issue is compounded by the lack of research into suitable deployment models for eSIM in low-resource settings like Uganda. The Gap in the Existing Model: eSIM acquisition approach is open to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) in resource-constrained environments like Uganda. Problem statement: The eSIM technology adoption rate being slow and the limited research in the eSIM deployment models in low resource settings necessitate a thorough review of the impact of the existing open-ended eSIM deployment model. Main research objective: There is a need to develop a suitable eSIM deployment model that addresses the above challenges and ineciencies. Methodology: The study employed Key Informative Interviews (KII) with key stakeholders such as Remote SIM Provisioning (RSP) vendors, MNOs, and the telecommunication regulatory body in Uganda. Data collected included factors limiting adoption, perceived usefulness of eSIM, and regulatory insights. Thematic analysis was conducted alongside a survey of existing literature on eSIM deployments that in turn facilitated the model design using Unified Modeling Language (UML) tool insights. A validity simulation test by invoking the sigmoid function in the python environment was conducted. Key results: (1) This research advocates for the adoption of a convergent approach in the deployment of eSIM technology that takes into context the stringent laws in this resourceconstrained environment. (2) The research also proposes a framework on how to achieve the convergent deployment model in a low-resource setting. (3) This study demonstrates the superiority of the convergence model compared to the open-ended model in the context of eSIM technology implementation. Conclusion: Adopting a convergent deployment model over the open-ended approach could significantly boost the adoption rate of eSIM technology in Uganda. Benefits include avoiding market failure, fostering competition among MNOs, and increasing accessibility to eSIM services across Uganda’s telecommunications landscape.