The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has recorded a 10% surge in electricity demand over the past few months it has been in charge of distributing power.
Ruth Nankabirwa, the minister of Energy, attributed this increase to growing demand from the public, with 140,000 new customers registered during this period.
She said the rise in electricity demand is primarily driven by the proliferation of factories and small manufacturing enterprises, such as those involved in coffee and maize processing, as well as individual consumers.
Nankabirwa acknowledged the ongoing power outages across the country but explained that these are due to UEDCL’s nationwide initiative to replace outdated power stations and transformers with modern infrastructure. She emphasised that these upgrades are stabilising the power supply and urged the public to remain patient during this transition.
However, Nankabirwa said electricity theft remains a significant challenge facing the sector. To address this, she introduced the “Wetereze,” an amnesty programme, which encourages individuals to confess to illegally tapping electricity.
Those who come forward are offered forgiveness and a free connection, including a meter box. According to the minister, this campaign has already granted amnesty to over 200,000 individuals, significantly reducing power theft.
UEDCL took over Umeme’s electricity distribution operations on April 1, 2025, following the expiration of Umeme’s 20-year concession that began on March 1, 2005. This transition occurred after the government decided not to renew the concession.
