Uganda Power Regulator Courts Public Trust Amid Transition, Infrastructure Woes
KABALE/FORT PORTAL, Uganda – Uganda’s Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) concluded a two-week engagement tour across the western districts of Kabale and Fort Portal this month, aiming to address growing concerns over electricity reliability and accountability as the nation shifts away from a concession model with Umeme. The intensive outreach, described by the ERA as a “pulse check,” comes at a pivotal moment for Uganda’s energy sector, balancing the demands of a growing population and burgeoning industrial ambitions.
The ERA’s visit followed repeated complaints from residents and business owners regarding frequent power outages and a lack of transparency in electricity pricing. In Fort Portal, local leaders pressed the ERA on the transition to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), emphasizing that citizens are primarily concerned with consistent power supply, not the identity of the provider.
“Our people don’t care who is holding the wires; they care if the bulbs are on,” a local leader stated during a meeting in Fort Portal, reflecting a widespread sentiment.
ERA officials responded by outlining the rationale behind the 2026 Tariff Review and the necessary investments to stabilize the national grid. The regulator stressed a shift towards greater accountability under the new state-led distribution model, promising a more direct line of responsibility between consumers and the government.
Beyond accountability, security of electricity infrastructure emerged as a major theme. ERA officials revealed alarming rates of power theft and vandalism – including the theft of angle-bars – leading to widespread outages. In response, the ERA is bolstering collaboration with police and the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) to protect critical infrastructure, emphasizing a “no-nonsense” approach and encouraging community policing.
The tour also focused on improving the quality of electrical work within homes and businesses. In Kabale, the ERA conducted training for certified wirepersons, reinforcing regulations and warning against the dangers of unqualified electricians – locally known as “kamyufu” – who pose a risk of domestic fire outbreaks.
Recognizing the importance of clear communication, the ERA also provided training for journalists from the Kigezi and Tooro regions, equipping them with the knowledge to accurately explain complex tariff structures to the public.
Businesses, particularly those in the tourism sector, voiced concerns about the economic impact of power disruptions. A hotelier in Fort Portal, a popular tourist destination, noted that outages during peak season damage the region’s reputation. The ERA responded by highlighting ongoing substation upgrades in Kabale and planned inspections in Fort Portal, designed to minimize unplanned interruptions.
The ERA encouraged consumers to utilize its regional office in Mbarara for faster resolution of grievances.
The ERA’s outreach signals a commitment to greater transparency and responsiveness, but the true test will be whether these dialogues translate into tangible improvements in electricity access and reliability for the people of Tooro and Kigezi.
Key Takeaways:
- Tariff Transparency: The ERA is working to clarify electricity pricing and the impact of the 2026 tariff review.
- Infrastructure Security: A renewed focus on combating vandalism and theft of electricity infrastructure.
- Professional Standards: A crackdown on unqualified electricians to improve safety.
- Improved Access: Consumers are encouraged to utilize the ERA regional office in Mbarara for faster grievance resolution.