Uganda's Electricity Distribution Is Changing Hands - What's At Stake

Uganda's Electricity Distribution Is Changing Hands - What's At Stake

Analysis - Uganda's electricity sector is at a turning point, as Umeme Limited's 20-year concession draws to a close. Umeme was the first private distribution operator in anglophone Africa. For nearly two decades, the listed company was the dominant distributor of electricity to the country's 2.3 million clients. However, Uganda decided in 2022 not to renew the licence on expiry, citing high power tariffs and low electricity access rates.

Uganda’s electricity distribution is changing hands – what’s at stake

Uganda’s electricity sector is at a turning point, as Umeme Limited’s 20-year concession draws to a close. Umeme was the first private distribution operator in anglophone Africa. For nearly two decades, the listed company was the dominant distributor of electricity to the country’s 2.3 million clients. However, Uganda decided in 2022 not to renew the licence on expiry, citing high power tariffs and low electricity access rates. Umeme’s departure…

How to buy Light (Yaka)

As you may already know, Umeme has handed over power distribution to Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), and the Yaka service has been rebranded as Light. However, the process of buying electricity remains unchanged; only the terminology has been updated. To buy Light using Airtel, dial 165*4*1*2# and select the Light token option. To pay for Light using MTN, dial 165*4*1*1# and choose Light to pay. You can now purchase a Li…

New Electricity Fees Leave Ugandans In Tears!! See Why Most Ugandans Will Adopt Solar After UMEME Exit

On April 1, 2025, the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) announced updated power tariffs as the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) took over electricity distribution operations from Umeme. This marks a significant shift in the country’s energy sector and promises more favorable conditions for consumers, especially large manufacturers. ERA’s board chairperson, Dr. Sarah Wasagali Kanaabi, […]

New Era in Uganda’s Power Sector: ERA Takes Over from Umeme with Lower Rates and Better Service

In a major shift for Uganda’s power sector, the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) announced last month the official handover of power distribution from Umeme to Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) on March 31. This change signals a new era, with the promise of better value for Ugandan consumers, ensuring that the public enjoys the new wave of UEDCL Dr. Sarah Wasagali Kanaabi, the Chairperson of ERA, confirmed that the ta…

Men and women who will be driving Uganda’s power distribution function: Who is who on UEDCL’s Exco team?  – CEO East Africa

As Uganda Electricity Distribution Company (UEDCL) formally takes over the power distribution function, it will be months or even years before Ugandans move on from the days of Umeme. Yes, it… This Is Premium Content. Subscribe And Save On Unlimited Access With Our Best Offers! Subscribe Log In The post Men and women who will be driving Uganda’s power distribution function: Who is who on UEDCL’s Exco team?  appeared first on CEO East Afri…