Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has marked its first 100 days since officially taking over the national electricity distribution mandate on April 1, 2025—a major shift in the country’s power sector.
In its performance review, UEDCL reports significant progress in expanding electricity access, improving service delivery, boosting revenue collection, and enhancing network infrastructure, positioning itself as a key player in Uganda’s energy transition.
Among its most notable achievements, UEDCL successfully recruited and deployed 2,601 employees, reaching 96% of its staffing target across operations. Additionally, 550 direct contract linesmen were hired to accelerate electricity connections, with a target of connecting 47,000 households and businesses monthly.
In its first three months, UEDCL connected 23,791 new customers and secured funding for an additional 250,000 free connections under the government’s universal electricity access agenda.
The company also upgraded the capacity of four key substations—Kabale, Kakiri, Kawanda, and Matugga—to stabilize power supply in high-demand areas, replaced 116 faulty transformers, and advanced a $50 million capital investment plan to strengthen the distribution network.
Operational continuity was maintained by transforming all former Umeme service centers into UEDCL branches, ensuring uninterrupted customer services such as power purchases and service requests.
Customer engagement has also improved through a new Contact Centre, which resolved 80% of customer inquiries, with a 56% response rate within 24 hours. UEDCL has also expanded its online outreach through an active social media strategy designed to enhance customer feedback and transparency.
Financially, UEDCL reported strong discipline, collecting 104% of billed revenue in its first 100 days, while fully settling its outstanding Shs 220.5 billion payment to the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL). The company says this solid performance has strengthened its financial base for future growth.
Vandalism, however, remains a significant challenge. UEDCL formed a joint task force with security agencies, resulting in over 31 arrests. The company also launched anti-vandalism community meetings (barazas) in high-risk areas to raise awareness and promote community vigilance.
Additionally, UEDCL conducted 100 radio and TV talk shows to provide updates on the transition process and educate the public about its new mandate.
Network reliability has improved from 97.1% to 98.1% since UEDCL assumed control, reflecting better system availability for users across the country. The company also received accreditation from the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Authority (PPDA), streamlining procurement processes for faster service delivery.
Despite these milestones, many Ugandans continue to face frequent power outages—a source of growing public frustration and comparisons between UEDCL and its predecessor, Umeme.
UEDCL has responded by assuring the public that it is actively addressing these challenges through ongoing infrastructure investments and operational improvements.
“As we close the first 100 days, we remain focused on delivering reliable, affordable, and efficient electricity to all Ugandans,” the company stated.
