Lighting the Path to Progress: UEDCL’s Ambitious National Electrification and Infrastructure Overhaul
In the evolving landscape of Uganda’s infrastructure development, the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has emerged as a pivotal actor in the nation’s electrification agenda. Following the acquisition of its distribution license from the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) on December 31, 2024, UEDCL has embarked on a transformative mission to extend access, modernize systems, and reinforce public trust in the country’s electricity distribution framework.
Over an eight-month horizon, UEDCL has set an ambitious goal: to implement up to 225,000 new electricity connections, a figure that speaks to both the scale of national demand and the utility’s operational readiness. The initiative is not merely a numerical target—it reflects a strategic commitment to sustainable development, digital transformation, and institutional reform within Uganda’s energy sector.
Institutional Readiness: Human Capital as a Strategic Asset
UEDCL’s resurgence has been underpinned by a deliberate investment in human capital. Following a mass recruitment campaign aligned with a shareholder-approved organizational structure, 96% of the company’s workforce has already been deployed, while the remaining 4%—critical technical expertise—is being sourced externally. Capacity-building efforts are centralized at the Njeru Training Centre, now fully operational and offering comprehensive instruction across technical, managerial, and customer service disciplines. These programs are integrated with change management and cultural realignment initiatives, signaling UEDCL’s intent to recalibrate its institutional ethos toward accountability and service excellence.
Democratizing Access: New Connections and Digital Transparency
In mid-April 2025, UEDCL launched its new connections campaign with a particular emphasis on three-phase and no-pole household connections—essential for both residential access and small-scale enterprise. According to Managing Director Paul Mwesigwa, all requisite meters are in stock, and the company’s online application platform is now fully functional, effectively eliminating the need for middlemen and thereby enhancing procedural integrity.
This digital transformation aligns with global best practices in public utility reform—advancing transparency, streamlining access, and curbing corrupt intermediaries that have historically undermined trust in public services.
Rehabilitating Infrastructure: A Nation-Wide Modernization Agenda
A cornerstone of UEDCL’s infrastructure agenda is the replacement of 116 defective transformers, ranging from 25kVA to 1MVA, in multiple districts since April 1, 2025. These interventions have already improved service reliability in previously underserved or disrupted areas.
To further fortify grid resilience, the utility has initiated a series of planned national shutdowns for maintenance and system upgrades—synchronized with enhancements by the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) at Mutundwe, Namanve, Kawanda, Nkenda, and Mbarara North substations. While these disruptions may temporarily inconvenience consumers, they are essential for long-term reliability and sectoral stability.
Capital Investments and Strategic Expansion
UEDCL’s operational rollout is reinforced by a $74 million (UGX 274 billion) capital expenditure program, approved by ERA for its first fiscal year. The investment portfolio encompasses:
- Refurbishment of legacy distribution lines
- Construction and upgrade of key substations
- Deployment of over 518 transformers in high-demand and rapidly growing zones
These capital projects are designed to meet the dual challenge of urban expansion and rural electrification, enabling the grid to absorb increasing loads and adapt to emerging energy demands.
Consumer Engagement and Digital Service Delivery
As consumer expectations evolve, UEDCL has positioned itself as a responsive and digitally attuned service provider. The company now operates a 24/7 contact center and maintains an active presence across major digital platforms—X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, WhatsApp, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram—offering real-time information and customer interaction.
Furthermore, digital payments through telecoms, banks, and mobile applications have been fully integrated, granting customers unprecedented convenience in managing their utility accounts.
Confronting Challenges: Vandalism and Energy Theft
Despite notable achievements, UEDCL is contending with a surge in vandalism and illegal electricity connections, particularly in Nakasongola, Luwero, Mukono, and Mityana. These activities have not only increased operational costs but have also posed serious safety risks and tarnished public confidence.
In the first month alone, the utility reported nine verified incidents of vandalism, prompting collaboration with law enforcement and community stakeholders. UEDCL has established toll-free hotlines (0800203088, 0800285285, and 0800385385) and is engaging with local authorities, the police, and the media to promote public vigilance.
“Community engagement lies at the core of our operational strategy,” Mr. Mwesigwa affirmed. In response, UEDCL has scheduled a series of grassroots community forums (barazas) in Wabigalo, Katugo, Kakoge, and Nakasongola to sensitize the public and mobilize citizen participation in safeguarding critical infrastructure.
Forecast: Sustained Vision & Public Partnership
Despite the scale of operational challenges, UEDCL’s first 57 days of stewardship reveal a company animated by urgency, institutional maturity, and strategic foresight. The utility’s leadership recognizes that electrification is not merely a technical achievement—it is a catalyst for national transformation.
In a country where access to electricity remains a defining factor in education, healthcare, industrialization, and social mobility, UEDCL’s work is about far more than infrastructure. It is about expanding opportunity, reducing inequality, and sustaining national momentum toward Uganda’s Vision 2040.
As the company invests further in technology, talent, and trust-building, it calls on the public for patience and partnership. The journey is underway—and UEDCL stands resolute in its commitment to light the way for a rising Uganda.
