Leo Elem urges power connections in Alebtong, blasts UEDCL over blackouts

6 August 2026, 5:24 pm

By Hillary Opio Omara

Alebtong District — Moroto County Member of Parliament Leo Elem has called on the Ministry of Energy to urgently complete delayed electricity connections in Alebtong District, saying communities have waited for years despite electricity poles already being installed.

Speaking during a Parliamentary committee meeting on Wednesday, 5 August 2026, Elem said Alebtong was among the early beneficiaries of the Rural Electrification Programme, but many villages remain without electricity because power lines have not been connected to the installed poles.

According to the legislator, the delays have denied thousands of residents access to electricity and slowed economic development in the district.

He said reliable electricity would enable young people to establish income-generating businesses such as welding workshops, carpentry and other small enterprises, while also supporting existing businesses.

Elem added that the lack of electricity has worsened water challenges, noting that power is needed to operate water pumps and improve access to safe and reliable water supplies.

He further warned that some of the unused electricity poles are being destroyed by bushfires, risking the loss of government infrastructure before it is ever put into service.

The MP criticised what he described as the slow pace of electricity expansion, arguing that the Ministry of Energy should prioritise service delivery instead of allowing projects to stall for years.

He also faulted the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), saying residents continue to experience frequent power outages in areas that are already connected to the national grid.

Elem, who serves on Parliament’s Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, urged the Ministry of Energy to intervene immediately and ensure that the people of Alebtong fully benefit from the electricity infrastructure already installed in the district.

He said access to reliable electricity is essential for improving livelihoods, creating jobs and accelerating development in the district.

Meanwhile, business leaders in Alebtong District have expressed concern over persistent power outages and limited electricity coverage, saying unreliable supply continues to hinder business growth and livelihoods despite the expansion of the national grid.

The Chairperson of the business community in Alebtong District, Bonny Akanya, said that while electricity has reached several parts of the district, many communities remain unconnected or continue to experience unstable power supply.

According to Akanya, parts of Adwir Sub-county, including Alololo Parish along the Alebtong-Teso border, are among the worst affected areas, with residents still lacking reliable access to electricity.

He noted that Amugu Town Council, Apala, Aloi and Alebtong Town Council are connected to the national grid, but businesses and households continue to experience frequent power interruptions that disrupt economic activities.

Akanya also highlighted the case of Ajuri Trading Centre, where electricity was disconnected for nearly four months.

He said local leaders sought the intervention of Ajuri County MP Fred Jalameso, who engaged the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL). Following his intervention, power was restored.

MP Fred Jalameso commended UEDCL for responding to concerns raised by residents but urged the company to ensure a stable and consistent electricity supply across Ajuri County, saying reliable power is essential for economic development and improved livelihoods.

The leaders’ concerns come amid growing calls for the government and electricity authorities to improve power reliability and extend electricity access to underserved communities across Alebtong District.