Uganda: Gov’t Cut Down Cost Of Electricity Connection Fee To Boost Access

The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), has launched a nationwide initiative aimed at making the cost of connecting electricity from the national grid cheaper for citizens.

Under the new initiative, those who want to connect electricity from the national grid will pay just Shs 23,000, a significant drop from the previous fee of Shs 750,000.

Speaking at the launch of the initiative, Minister for Energy and Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to extending electricity to all Ugandans.

According to her, the program aims to transform lives, boost economic activity, and lift communities out of poverty.

“This initiative is a cornerstone of our national development strategy,” Nankabirwa said.

“Access to affordable and reliable electricity is crucial for economic growth, job creation, and improved livelihoods. We will not tolerate those who seek to undermine this progress through illegal activities such as power theft.”

Currently, Uganda’s electricity access stands at about 60 percent, including households using solar power.

The government’s long-term goal is to achieve universal access by the next decade.

Commenting on the program, Managing Director of Ugandan Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), Mr. Paul Mwesiggwa, said the new pricing structure was designed to remove inefficiencies and corruption that resulted in inflated costs of connection in the past.

“This streamlined process eliminates many of the bureaucratic hurdles and opportunities for bribery. We now have a system that ensures transparency and accountability,” he said.

He added that the initiative would also curb electricity theft, a persistent challenge that undermines the sector’s financial stability.

Some Ugandans have hailed the initiative and praised the government for it.

“For years, we lived in darkness. Now my family and neighbors can access electricity, and it will help us in business and improve education for our children,” one resident said, as cited by Nile Post.

The reduced cost of connection is expected to stimulate growth in rural areas, empower small businesses, and improve living standards by making electricity more accessible than ever before.

“This initiative must not only light homes but also light the way for accountability,” one community leader in Bukomero said, urging vigilance to ensure fairness and sustainability.

Source: https://energynewsafrica.com