Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) is calling for patience from its customers as it works to resolve persistent blackouts and power outages across the country.
While addressing the media, Jonan Kiiza, the UEDCL spokesperson, said that the current blackouts are due to repairs being carried out on old and deteriorating utility infrastructure left behind by UMEME. Kiiza was giving an update on UEDCL’s performance in the first 48 days since it took over the power distribution mandate from Umeme Limited on March 31 this year.
He apologized for the ongoing disruptions but assured the public that efforts are underway to stabilize the power supply network by December.
Kiiza said they have already received 74 million US dollars from the government through the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), which is being used to refurbish lines, upgrade and establish new substations, and install over 518 transformers in high-demand areas.
He stated that they are on track to achieve their target of 225,000 new electricity connections by the end of the year.
Kiiza further cited widespread vandalism of electricity infrastructure in districts such as Wabigalo, Nakasongola, Kakooge Kafu, Mityana, and Mpigi as a major challenge. He explained that such acts not only disrupt the power supply but also impose a heavy financial burden on the country.
