Uganda’s state-owned electricity distributor, UEDCL, is in the midst of a sweeping leadership overhaul after Board Chair Lydia Ochieng-Obbo was terminated and Managing Director Paul Mwesigwa placed on forced leave.
According to the Ministry of Energy, the move is part of a full-scale review of the company’s management and operations, following mounting public dissatisfaction with UEDCL’s performance. The utility has faced sustained criticism over frequent blackouts, declining service reliability, and operational inefficiencies since taking over power distribution from Umeme in April 2025.
Despite reporting revenue growth, UEDCL’s service delivery has come under intense scrutiny, prompting government intervention to address leadership and structural gaps. The Ministry described the shake-up as a governance measure aimed at restoring accountability, improving performance, and rebuilding public confidence in the energy sector.
Interim board and management appointments have been put in place to ensure continuity of services, with officials emphasizing that electricity supply and distribution will remain uninterrupted during the transition.
Energy Minister Hon. Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu called for patience and cooperation from stakeholders, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening oversight and operational efficiency at UEDCL.
The interim arrangements will remain in effect until substantive appointments are made, as authorities push to stabilize and reform the country’s electricity distribution system.
