The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), the entity that took over from Umeme in April this year as the national power supplier, has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding electricity access across the country.
This was revealed during a stakeholder engagement between members of the Fourth Estate and UEDCL’s senior management team at the Uganda Media Centre.
Speaking during the said engagement, Jonan Kiiza UEDCL’s spokesperson, emphasised the company’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and keeping the public informed about the state of power supply in Uganda.
Kiiza, who also shared a report on UEDCL’s first 57 days of performance, noted that over the next eight months, the UEDCL hopes to add up to 225,000 new connections, which he said aligns with the goals set forth by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) in its distribution license, which was granted on December 31, 2024.
“Throughout the entire country, UEDCL has 100 service centres, 96% of the employees have been onboarded and deployed throughout the company since the end of the mass hiring process. Following the structure approved by the shareholders, 4% of the skills will be recruited from external sources,” Kiiza said.
“In the second-to-last week of April, the national power distributor started new connections, concentrating on three-phase and no-pole household connections. Connection teams are actively handling new electricity connections, with meters available in stock. The online application system is now fully functional, eliminating the need for middlemen,” he added.
Kiiza noted that new connections have been underway since mid-April 2025, adding that UEDCL has embarked on a large-scale renovation of the distribution system.
Kiiza, however, decried the escalating cases of vandalism and illegal connections, which he said are driving up operational costs and endangering communities.
“In the first month alone, nine incidents were reported in Nakasongola and Luwero, with more in Mityana and Mukono. With the US$74m (about Shs274 billion) capex as approved by ERA for the first-year capital investments; projects set include refurbishing lines, upgrading and establishing new substations, and installing over 518 transformers in high-demand areas,” Kiiza revealed, stressing that the first 57 days have demonstrated potential, tenacity, and a definite emphasis on long-term achievement.
Key Initiatives by UEDCL
Kiiza highlighted several key initiatives aimed at enhancing customer service, addressing evolving customer expectations, and improving the quality and reliability of power supply. These initiatives, he pointed out, demonstrate the company’s commitment to providing excellent service to its customers and contributing to Uganda’s economic development.
Expanding Electricity Access
He noted that one of UEDCL’s primary objectives is to expand electricity access across Uganda and that, as such, the company recognises the importance of electricity in driving economic growth, improving living standards, and promoting development.
By increasing access to electricity, therefore, Kiiza noted that UEDCL aims to support Uganda’s economic ambitions and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
Ongoing Projects
UEDCL is currently implementing several projects aimed at improving the quality and reliability of power supply across Uganda. These projects are designed to address the country’s growing energy needs and ensure a stable and efficient power supply.
Transparency and Accountability
He also highlighted UEDCL’s commitment to transparency and accountability, which he said is evident in its efforts to keep the public informed about the state of power supply in Uganda. By engaging with the media and other stakeholders, the company aims to provide accurate and timely information about its operations and initiatives.
UEDCL’s reaffirmation of its commitment to expanding electricity access in Uganda is a welcome development.
The company’s initiatives and ongoing projects demonstrate its dedication to improving the quality and reliability of power supply, enhancing customer service, and promoting transparency and accountability.
As Uganda continues to grow and develop, UEDCL’s efforts will play a critical role in supporting the country’s economic ambitions.