Nankabirwa defends UEDCL over blackouts as Lukwago protests Nakivubo works

7 October 2025, 8:18 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Following several complaints from the general public about the performance of the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) since it took over operations from UMEME Limited, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, today addressed the nation on the matter at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala. She was accompanied by officials from the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) and representatives from UEDCL.

“I want to thank the general public for consuming electricity. This represents a 10% growth,” the minister said, noting that the rising demand has also placed additional strain on the distribution network.

Nankabirwa explained that, in order to prevent nationwide blackouts, UEDCL has been compelled to temporarily switch off some areas, particularly those served by ageing substations that require repair or replacement. She cited Namungoona, Mutundwe, and the surrounding areas as examples, noting that their substations were installed between 1993 and 1994 and are now due for major upgrades.

The minister added that the government and UEDCL are already addressing the problem by maintaining 206 transformers and implementing other long-term solutions. She urged the public to remain patient as these works are carried out.

In her remarks, Nankabirwa also issued a stern warning to individuals involved in electricity theft, granting them a three-month grace period to desist and take advantage of the ongoing Wetereze campaign. She revealed that 22,360 people have so far been caught stealing power, while 62 others have been arrested for vandalising electric wires.

“People said the meters were expensive, so they resorted to stealing electricity. We decided to reduce the price from between Uganda Shillings 500 and 700 to a more affordable rate,” she said, calling on Resident City Commissioners (RCCs), District Police Commanders (DPCs), and other leaders to act swiftly in enforcing the law.

She further emphasised that transformer repairs should not exceed two weeks and appealed to the public to support UEDCL workers instead of discouraging them through social media criticism.

Meanwhile, Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago has continued to raise concerns over the ongoing renovation of the Nakivubo drainage channel by businessman Hamis Kiggundu’s company, Ham Enterprises. Lukwago described the project as illegal, arguing that it lacks proper environmental clearance.

On 22 August 2025, the Executive Director of the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Dr Barirega Akankwasah, wrote to the Executive Director of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), copying the Lord Mayor, requesting information about the proposed development after receiving reports about the project.

Lukwago further argued that Ham Enterprises should have ensured an alternative water passage before undertaking the works. Nevertheless, the ongoing renovation has created employment opportunities for many young people working along the drainage channel.