The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has assured Ugandans of a smooth and efficient transition in the country’s power distribution services following its recent takeover from Umeme.
Addressing the press at the Uganda Media centre on Tuesday 8th April, UEDCL Managing Director Paul Mwesigwa said the company has hit the ground running, with major strides already made in stabilizing service delivery and system operations.
“We have successfully implemented our new vending system, which is now fully functional online and through various banking channels,” Mwesigwa said. “Our current focus is ensuring uninterrupted customer service and enhancing network stability.”
The transition has, however, sparked public concern, with complaints of increased blackouts in several areas since UEDCL assumed operations. In response, Mwesigwa revealed that a nationwide audit had been conducted to assess and address the root causes of the disruptions.
In addition to technical faults, UEDCL discovered power overload issues in several areas. Mwesigwa noted that the company is already taking steps to resolve this by investing in infrastructure upgrades.
“We identified 113 faulty transformers across the country, some of which had been down for more than three weeks,” he explained. “Our engineering teams are working around the clock, and we expect all affected transformers to be fully operational by the end of this week.”
Mwesigwa adds that “We have secured affordable financing, and with support from the regulator, we are confident that we will deliver a seamless service to the public,”
UEDCL’s takeover marks a significant shift in Uganda’s electricity distribution landscape. The company has reaffirmed its commitment to providing reliable, accessible, and efficient power to all Ugandans, promising to prioritize customer satisfaction and system resilience in its operations.