The expiration of Kalangala Infrastructure Services Ltd’s (KIS) contract, the main power supplier for Buggala Island in Kalangala District, elicited varied responses from residents.
KIS, which has applied for a renewal of its license from the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), faced complaints from some locals regarding service reliability.
While Mr. Peter Ddumba of ERA confirmed the forthcoming contract renewal, Mr. Ronald Jamba, a Kalangala Town Council councillor, criticized KIS’s performance, advocating for more bidders to improve power supply.
Residents like Ms. Betty Nanyonjjo lamented persistent blackouts since June, resulting in damage to electrical appliances.
Conversely, Mr. Jude Tadeo Musaazi of Kalangala District’s community-based service department defended KIS, citing its comparatively satisfactory performance.
KIS spokesperson, Mr. Joseph Mulindwa, assured a commitment to service enhancement.
Former Kalangala District chairperson, Mr. Willy Lugoloobi, prioritized reliability and affordability over the service provider, advocating for reduced tariffs.
Currently, Kalangala residents face higher electricity costs compared to the national grid, attributed to production expenses and commercial losses at the Bukuzindu Village power plant.
KIS initiated its operations in 2013 under a public-private partnership, with the government nearing completion of connecting Kalangala to the national grid, expected to reduce tariffs, as per KIS and district leaders’ assertions.
