The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has announced plans to add up to 225,000 new electricity connections across the country over the next eight months, as part of a wider strategy to expand access to power and improve service delivery.
This ambitious target aligns with goals set forth by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) in UEDCL’s distribution license, which was granted on December 31, 2024.
This announcement comes as the national power distributor marks 57 days since officially taking over the distribution function, signaling early milestones and long-term plans that are already taking shape.
With a presence spanning the country, UEDCL currently operates 100 service centers.
Following an extensive recruitment process, 96% of the company’s staff have been onboarded and deployed in line with the approved structure by shareholders. The remaining 4% of specialized skills will be recruited externally.
To strengthen internal capacity, employees are undergoing training at the fully operational Njeru Training Center, covering multiple business disciplines and incorporating change management and cultural alignment strategies.
In the second-to-last week of April, UEDCL began its new connections rollout, initially focusing on three-phase and no-pole household connections.
The Managing Director, Mr. Paul Mwesigwa, confirmed the teams are actively on the ground and the necessary infrastructure is ready.
“The connection teams are working on new connections and the required meters are in stock. There is no longer a need for middlemen because the online application system is completely operational,” he said.
Since the second week of April 2025, new customer connections have been ongoing across various regions.
In addition to increasing access, UEDCL has launched a major renovation of the distribution system. Notably, 116 faulty transformers inherited on April 1, 2025, have all been replaced, leading to improved power reliability in affected communities. These transformers range in capacity from 25kVA to 1MVA.
To further enhance network resilience, planned power shutdowns began in early May, accompanied by maintenance and upgrade works at major substations such as Mutundwe, Namanve, Kawanda, Nkenda, and Mbarara North.
While these activities have caused some temporary inconvenience, Mr. Jonan Kiiza, Head of Corporate and Stakeholder Affairs, reassured the public of their long-term benefit.
“Our consumers nationwide have experienced some inconvenience, but every effort is being made to increase the sector’s sustainability and power reliability,” Mr. Kiiza noted.
Backed by $74 million (about UGX 274 billion) in capital expenditure approved by ERA for the first year, UEDCL has set in motion several projects, including refurbishing lines, upgrading and constructing new substations, and installing over 518 transformers in high-demand areas before the year ends.
To improve the customer experience, UEDCL has established a round-the-clock contact center and is actively embracing digital platforms.
The company shares updates and service information through X, LinkedIn, YouTube, WhatsApp, TikTok, and Instagram, ensuring customers can engage wherever they are.
Bill payments can now be made through all telecoms, banks, and digital banking apps—offering convenience and efficiency.“We will be wherever our consumers are!” the statement reads.
Despite early progress, UEDCL is grappling with a rise in vandalism and illegal connections, which have increased operational costs and jeopardized community safety.
In its first month, the company recorded nine incidents in Nakasongola and Luwero, with further cases reported in Mityana and Mukono. These acts have led to extended power outages and damage to the company’s reputation.
In response, UEDCL is working closely with law enforcement and has urged the public to report such activities using toll-free lines: 0800203088, 0800285285, and 0800385385, or through local authorities, police, the army, or the media.
“Community engagements are at the heart of our strategy,” Mr. Mwesigwa stated. “We are stepping up outreach efforts using every available channel, including the media.”
As part of its outreach, UEDCL will hold community barazas in Wabigalo, Kakoge, Katugo, and Nakasongola starting next week.
Despite high demand and operational challenges, UEDCL says it remains committed to delivering a stable and inclusive electricity distribution service.
“The first 57 days have demonstrated potential, tenacity, and a definite emphasis on long-term achievement. The journey has just begun, and UEDCL asks for public patience and continued support as it stabilizes the network with more investments,” the statement concluded.
