Eng. Irene Bateebe Highlights Uganda’s Electricity Distribution Transition at UMEME-UEDCL Handover Ceremony
Looking ahead, Eng. Bateebe outlined Uganda’s ambitious plans for expanding its energy infrastructure. The government aims to continue investing in grid intensification and densification to improve electricity coverage nationwide. Additionally, the Energy Access Scale-up Project (EASP) is set to add 1.2 million customers to the distribution grid, reinforcing Uganda’s vision of a fully electrified nation.
Uganda has embarked on a new era in its power sector as the Government formally assumes control over the electricity distribution network previously managed by UMEME Limited. During a momentous event marking the official handover of UMEME’s assets to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), Eng. Irene Bateebe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the significance of this transition.
In her address, Eng. Bateebe described the handover as a defining moment in Uganda’s energy landscape. After two decades under UMEME’s concession, the government is now set to directly manage electricity distribution through UEDCL, a move aimed at ensuring sustainability, expanding access, and reducing costs for end users.
“This transition is not just a change in management; it is a crucial step in advancing Uganda’s second-generation power sector reforms. By returning control of the electricity distribution network to UEDCL, we are addressing key priorities, including ensuring sustainability, expanding access to underserved regions, and consolidating the distribution system in line with the Energy Policy 2023,” she stated.
As part of the handover, Eng. Bateebe outlined the government's strategic priorities for UEDCL, which include:
Ensuring Sustainability and Financial Stability: The transition is expected to enhance Uganda’s financial independence in the energy sector by optimizing operational costs and reinvesting profits into infrastructure development. Expanding
Electricity Access: The shift to UEDCL will facilitate increased electrification in rural and underserved areas, accelerating Uganda’s goal of universal electricity access.
Reducing Operational Costs: By minimizing operational expenses, UEDCL aims to lower end-user tariffs, as guided by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s vision for affordable electricity.
Strengthening Operational Efficiency: With the distribution network under full government control, the efficiency of service delivery and grid management is expected to improve significantly.
To address public concerns regarding continuity, Eng. Bateebe reassured electricity consumers that the transition would not disrupt services. The Yaka prepaid system, previously managed by UMEME, remains in place but will be rebranded under UEDCL Light.
“The service centers operated by UMEME will continue functioning under UEDCL, ensuring uninterrupted customer support. UEDCL has already been managing electricity distribution in other regions, and their proven efficiency guarantees a seamless transition,” she emphasized.
Eng. Bateebe highlighted the financial backing that the government has provided to facilitate the transition. The Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development has already paid UMEME a buy-out sum of USD 118 million, with an additional USD 9 million allocated for ongoing projects and USD 50 million earmarked for UEDCL’s capital investments. These investments will be directed towards infrastructure improvements, network expansion, and the reduction of energy losses.
“The government’s financial commitment underscores its dedication to strengthening the electricity distribution segment. These funds will help UEDCL address infrastructure gaps and enhance service delivery for all Ugandans,” she noted.
Looking ahead, Eng. Bateebe outlined Uganda’s ambitious plans for expanding its energy infrastructure. The government aims to continue investing in grid intensification and densification to improve electricity coverage nationwide. Additionally, the Energy Access Scale-up Project (EASP) is set to add 1.2 million customers to the distribution grid, reinforcing Uganda’s vision of a fully electrified nation.
As she concluded her speech, Eng. Bateebe congratulated UEDCL on assuming this crucial mandate and reaffirmed MEMD’s commitment to driving Uganda’s energy sector transformation. “This handover marks a new beginning for our electricity distribution system. With UEDCL at the helm, Uganda is on a steadfast path towards economic transformation through a stable and efficient power supply.”
The handover ceremony, attended by key government officials, energy sector stakeholders, and representatives from UMEME and UEDCL, marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and affordable energy future for Uganda.
