Uganda: UETCL Breaks Ground For Karuma–Tororo 400kV Transmission Line

Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) has broken ground for the Karuma–Tororo 400kV Transmission Line Project to strengthen the country’s electricity transmission network.

The project, valued at approximately €342.59 million, will transmit power from the 600MW Karuma Hydropower Plant to eastern Uganda and Greater Kampala to help meet growing electricity demand.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony at Ntinda Substation in Kampala, Energy and Mineral Development Minister Dr Monica Musenero Masanza said investment in transmission infrastructure was essential to supporting Uganda’s development.

“Expanding our electricity transmission infrastructure is critical to meeting the country’s growing energy needs, supporting industrialization and ensuring that power generated reaches the areas where it is needed most.”

UETCL Board Chairman Kwame Ejalu said the project would advance the company’s mandate and support Uganda’s long-term development priorities.

“This project reflects our commitment to investing in robust and resilient transmission infrastructure and support for economic transformation. The Board remains committed to providing strategic oversight to ensure that investments of this magnitude deliver lasting value to the country,” he said.

The project includes an approximately 347-kilometre, 400kV double-circuit transmission line passing through 15 districts, a new 400/220/33kV Tororo Border Substation, a 132/33kV Ntinda Substation and an extension of Karuma Substation.

Financing arrangements involve the Swedish government through the Swedish Export Credit Agency (EKN).

Ambassador Maria Olsson highlighted the importance of continued cooperation in developing Uganda’s energy infrastructure.

“Sweden is pleased to partner with Uganda in advancing strategic infrastructure that strengthens the electricity transmission network and supports the country’s ambitions for sustainable economic growth and development.”

Once completed, the project is expected to improve bulk electricity supply to industries, businesses and communities and facilitate cross-border power trade under the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP).

UETCL, the implementing agency, said activities had begun, including handing over the site to the contractor and undertaking disclosure and compensation processes for people affected by the project.

The project aligns with UETCL’s Corporate Strategic Plan, Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and Vision 2040, which support the country’s industrialisation and economic transformation.