MTN MoMo Uganda app download — Play Store, App Store, the activation flow
The MTN MoMo Uganda app downloads from Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS) under the name 'MyMTN'. Sign in with your MTN number linked to the wallet, verify by SMS, then set the app PIN (distinct from the 4-digit USSD PIN). The app reproduces the *165# menu with screen comfort, but USSD remains available without data and without a smartphone — you can use both in parallel.
✓ Verified June 2026.MTN/Airtel Uganda USSD codes and procedures verified against official sources. No tariffs are quoted on this page.
Activating the wallet in the MyMTN app
- Download 'MyMTN' from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Check publisher: MTN Group / MTN Uganda.
- Open the app, select 'Uganda' as country.
- Enter your MTN number (format +256 7XX XXX XXX). That is the number tied to your wallet.
- The app sends a verification code by SMS — enter it in the next screen.
- Set an app PIN of 4-6 digits (distinct from the USSD PIN). Enable fingerprint or Face ID if your phone supports it.
- The MoMo module appears on the main screen. The first time, the app may ask you to confirm your USSD PIN (4 digits) to activate wallet functions — that is normal.
What the app does better than USSD (and vice versa)
- App better: see full history, export a PDF statement, scan a merchant QR code, manage the recipient book, receive push notifications (transaction, fees).
- USSD better: works without data, without a smartphone, without an Android battery (basic phone with black-and-white screen). Essential offline, on a dead battery, or on a secondary phone.
- Tie: sends, withdrawals, purchases, bill payments, MoPesa loan request, balance check — USSD does all of those in a few key presses, the app does all of those in a few taps.
- Practical tip: install the app, keep USSD as a safety net. When traveling upcountry with weak signal, USSD stays reliable where the app struggles.
Frequently asked questions
What is the actual app name to search for?
On Google Play and App Store, search for 'MyMTN' — that is MTN Group's official app combining mobile account, top-up and MoMo. Publisher is 'MTN Group' or the local subsidiary 'MTN Uganda'. Beware of imitations: the official icon is yellow and black (MTN colours) and the app has several million downloads.
Do I need a separate app for MoMo?
No. MyMTN includes the MoMo module in the main app. Before 2023 there was a separate 'MTN MoMo' app — it has been merged. If you still have it on your phone, uninstall it and switch to MyMTN.
Does the app cost mobile data?
Yes, the app uses data for each operation — but MTN usually offers free (zero-rated) access to MyMTN on the MTN network, so the data cost is nil for MTN users. On WiFi it is also free. USSD (*165#) costs nothing either, so in case of doubt (weak signal, data depleted), fall back to USSD.
Is the app more secure than USSD?
Differently secured. The app uses HTTPS + an app PIN + biometric authentication (fingerprint/Face ID if your phone supports it). USSD uses a 4-digit PIN and the operator channel. The real risk in both cases: do not share the PIN. The app adds protection against SIM swap (if someone clones your SIM, they also need your app PIN).
Do the KYC tiers change in the app?
No. Identity verification tiers and their limits (UGX 5,000,000/day for a fully verified wallet) are identical across USSD and app — same MoMo rules behind. The app just makes it easier to see your current status and submit documents to step up a tier.
And for Airtel Money — which app?
For Airtel Money Uganda, the equivalent app is 'Airtel Thanks', available on Google Play and App Store. Publisher: Airtel Africa. Same logic: USSD (*185#) stays available in parallel. If you have both wallets, install both apps — useful to compare balances and start cross-network transfers.