Power cuts push UEDCL into network overhaul

What the report says

The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) says it is rolling out network upgrades in and around Greater Kampala after repeated outages exposed strain on the power system in fast-growing suburbs such as Kira, Namugongo and Naalya. The Observer reported that the utility is combining short-term repairs with longer-term projects to ease congestion on overloaded lines and improve reliability as electricity demand rises in the area.

At a meeting with more than 100 local leaders in Kira Municipality, UEDCL outlined work that includes upgrading the transformer at Kawanda substation, splitting the Seeta and Bukerere distribution line, adding transformers in heavily loaded areas and replacing damaged poles and conductors. The company said the measures are meant to stabilize voltage and allow faster restoration after interruptions. It also said the broader plan covers many surrounding communities and could benefit more than 80,000 customers.

UEDCL officials said they are also working with the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited on plans to raise transmission capacity in Greater Kampala from 80 megawatts to 200 megawatts. Other projects mentioned include new substations and upgrades in several towns across Uganda, alongside refurbishment of power lines in districts such as Mityana, Masaka, Kasese and Bushenyi. The company said it expects a major improvement in supply reliability once the work is completed, though it did not give a full timeline or baseline.

The report also said UEDCL is dealing with vandalism of electricity infrastructure and fraud involving new connections, while police and local leaders pledged support for protecting the network and reporting suspicious activity.