Pader district endures 203 power outages amid UEDCL failures

30 September 2024, 08:32

By Lakomekec Kinyera

A recent report by Rapa FM reveals that electricity in Pader has been disrupted 203 times in just four months, averaging about two outages per day. September saw the worst of these outages, with 67 instances recorded by 29 September.

Business owners have been struggling due to the unreliable power supply. Entrepreneurs in Pader town council expressed concerns, with salon owner Nancy Aciro reporting challenges in running her equipment. “The constant power outages are significantly affecting my business,” Aciro stated.

This count excludes the outages that occurred between 12 a.m. and 4 a.m. from June to September 2024, as of 29 September 2024, by 8 p.m. Moreover, businesses are facing severe water shortages, with locals reporting extensive damage to their operations. Residents of Pader town are frustrated by a five-day water shortage, leaving many to rely on rainwater and swamp water.

Mr Okwir Charles Ray, Pader District’s Secretary for Works and Technical Services, explained via WhatsApp on 29 September 2024 that they have informed the relevant authorities.

Okwir stated, “There are issues that are handled effectively by other branches of government. Local government has its mandate. We have informed those branches. How quickly they respond depends on many factors.” He noted that the problem is widespread in areas where the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has taken over from PACMECS, not just in Pader.

Due to the constant power outages, water supply has been intermittent. NWSC Manager Okumu Patrick explained that the shortage resulted from a technical issue with the power line, which is being addressed by UEDCL. He assured residents that normalcy would soon return. Okumu said, “We are working diligently to resolve this issue.”

Lakaraber Gloria, a disabled mother from Olwor South village, highlighted the difficulties of managing household chores without access to water, urging the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) to act swiftly. “It’s very hard to manage daily tasks without water,” she lamented.

UEDCL spokesperson Jonah Kiza mentioned in August 2024 that the disruptions were part of system upgrades from Abim to Pader, expected to be completed by September. He assured the community, “These upgrades will improve the stability of the power supply.”