KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) is seeking $994 million in infrastructure investment over the next five years to improve electricity distribution across the country amid continued complaints about power outages since taking over operations from Umeme in April 2025.
The proposed investment is expected to strengthen the country’s electricity distribution network, address existing infrastructure challenges and improve the reliability of power supply to households, businesses and industries.
UEDCL Acting Managing Director, Eng. Joselynne R. Rwabwogo, said the company was undertaking immediate interventions to address electricity supply challenges but acknowledged that some of the underlying problems would require substantial financial resources to resolve.
She explained that weaknesses within the distribution infrastructure could not be addressed immediately without significant investment.
“Some of the challenges affecting electricity supply require significant infrastructure investment and cannot be resolved overnight,” Rwabwogo said.
The utility’s investment plans come amid growing public concern over frequent power interruptions, particularly among business owners and industrial consumers who depend on a reliable electricity supply to maintain their operations.
UEDCL took over electricity distribution operations from Umeme in April 2025 following the expiry of Umeme’s concession, marking a major transition in the management of Uganda’s electricity distribution network.
However, the transition has been accompanied by complaints from consumers over outages and service interruptions, increasing pressure on the state-owned company to improve its operations.
According to UEDCL, its customer base has expanded significantly over the past five years, growing by 71 per cent from approximately 1.64 million customers in 2021 to about 2.8 million currently.
The growing number of electricity consumers has increased demand on the existing distribution infrastructure, highlighting the need for additional investment in the network.
The proposed $994 million funding requirement is intended to support infrastructure improvements over the next five years.
For millions of Ugandans, the key question will be whether the planned investment translates into more reliable electricity, fewer unexpected blackouts and improved service delivery.
