Govt stops importation of electricity meters as UEDCL backs local manufacturing

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The Government says it has officially halted the importation of electricity meters, with all procurement now being directed to local manufacturers. The move is aimed at boosting Uganda’s industrial base and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.

Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) spokesperson, Jonan Kiiza, made the revelations during the weekly joint security briefing at Naguru Police Headquarters on Monday, September 15, 2025.

“We are no longer importing electricity meters. All meters used in the distribution network are now sourced from our local industries,” Kiiza said.

“This is in line with the government’s Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) policy, and it’s a major milestone for the electricity sector.”

Kiiza added that this shift toward local production not only supports job creation and industrial growth but also strengthens the country’s energy independence and supply chain resilience.

“In the past, we procured meters from abroad. Today, our local factories have matured, and they are supplying both meters and transformers. It’s a good start for our young economy,” he added.

Progress since Umeme takeover

Providing an update on UEDCL’s operations, 165 days since it took over from Umeme Ltd, Kiiza highlighted progress in stabilising the power distribution grid. The company has recruited over 4,600 employees, replaced over 200 faulty transformers and surpassed revenue collection targets, achieving 102% of its target.

Additionally, energy purchases from the transmission company (UETCL) have increased by 8.4%, signalling growing demand for electricity.

However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, including a three-year investment gap in the distribution sector following the government’s 2022 decision not to renew Umeme’s concession, which left critical infrastructure overstretched.

Illegal connections, vandalism

Kiiza raised alarm over widespread illegal electricity connections and vandalism of power infrastructure, which continue to disrupt service delivery and pose fatal risks. He cited a recent incident in Nansana, where a young man was electrocuted while attempting an illegal connection.

To combat such issues, UEDCL launched the “Weetaase” campaign in July to regularise illegal connections. Over 15,000 people have so far responded, with 4,084 already connected legally.

Kiiza also condemned the ongoing vandalism of power lines, including underground cables in Kololo, as well as activities such as hanging political posters on transformers and power poles, which he warned are both illegal and life-threatening.

“Climbing distribution poles to hang political banners is extremely dangerous. Three phase lines can kill instantly,” he warned.

Investment in local industries and network upgrades

Kiiza praised the growing capacity of five local transformer manufacturers, who are now supplying the national grid — another step forward under the BUBU policy.

He acknowledged that the ongoing investment in infrastructure upgrades has led to planned power shutdowns, urging the public for patience and understanding.

“We now have over 47,000 rotten poles that we inherited, and we are replacing them gradually. But we can’t work on the grid while power is on — some shutdowns are necessary to improve service,” he explained.

Call for public co-operation

In closing, Kiiza appealed to communities to report faults and avoid using unauthorised technicians (commonly known as kamyufu) for repairs. He also warned against holding public events such as funerals or weddings near high-voltage lines without safety clearance from UEDCL.

“This infrastructure belongs to you, and we are investing taxpayer money to upgrade it. Let’s protect it together,” he urged.