UEDCL launches anti-bush burning campaign in Northern Uganda

10 February 2026, 8:51 pm

By Winnie Auma

The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has launched an anti–bush burning campaign in Northern Uganda to improve power supply.

Jonan Kiiza, Head of Corporate and Stakeholder Affairs at UEDCL, said that bush burning has severely affected electricity reliability in Northern Uganda, particularly in the Acholi and West Nile regions, as well as in parts of the Lango subregion.

He noted that at least 47 medium-voltage electricity distribution poles have been destroyed by bush fires, particularly in the districts of Amuru, Adjumani, and Gulu, leading to frequent power outages during this season.

Kiiza said the practice is also becoming rampant in the Lango subregion, where most electricity poles are wooden and highly vulnerable to fire, resulting in significant losses and increased vandalism when power lines are de-energised.

He warned that bush burning and vandalism are criminal offences under the Electricity Act, carrying penalties of up to one billion shillings in fines or a jail term of up to 15 years.

Kiiza added that UEDCL has implemented community engagement initiatives, radio sensitisation programmes, and partnerships with cultural, religious, and local leaders in Lango and Acholi to promote behavioural change and protect electricity infrastructure.

Paul Ssempira, Head of Commercial Services for Northern and Eastern Uganda, said the impact of burning electricity poles is significant both for the company and for individuals who rely on power, especially for business. He added that it cost over 90 million shillings to replace the 47 burnt poles.

He expressed dismay at the practice, noting that the government invests heavily to ensure a reliable power supply in communities, yet some people choose to burn poles recklessly.

According to reports from early 2019, Umeme lost over UGX 900 million due to power outages in Northern Uganda caused by burnt electricity poles.