The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has invested over Shs240 million in electricity distribution infrastructure in Butebo District. This move aims to improve power reliability and support growing commercial and industrial activity in the area. The projects, recently commissioned, include the extension of the electricity distribution network to Petete and the installation of a 100kVA transformer at a developing mini-industrial park in Kabarekere Village.
In Petete, UEDCL extended the distribution network to connect Petete Primary School, Petete Church, surrounding households, and Petete Town Council offices to the national grid. A new transformer was installed to support the additional load. The school had completed internal electrical wiring but lacked a power connection. The extension brings electricity to the school, church, and nearby households.
The second intervention targets emerging industrial and agro-processing activity in Kabarekere Village. UEDCL installed a 100kVA transformer to provide adequate capacity for a mini-industrial park under construction. Previously, the site relied on a distant 25kVA single-phase transformer, which was inadequate for the park's projected electricity demand of 48kW.
UEDCL Managing Director Eng. Joselynne Rwabwogo stated that with growing commercial activity and agro-processing in the area, they anticipate increased electricity demand. The new 100kVA transformer will provide the necessary capacity to support industrial and agro-processing activities. The projects were commissioned during a thanksgiving ceremony in Petete, officiated by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.
The investment is part of UEDCL's efforts to strengthen electricity distribution infrastructure and address concerns over power reliability and service delivery. Rwabwogo mentioned that the company has embarked on a nationwide stakeholder engagement programme to collaborate with local leaders, address customer concerns, and gather feedback to guide improvements in service delivery.
Rwabwogo acknowledged challenges associated with power outages and stated that UEDCL is implementing both immediate and long-term infrastructure interventions to address network constraints and accommodate rising electricity demand. The new infrastructure is expected to improve access to electricity for households and public institutions while providing additional capacity for businesses and agro-processing enterprises in Butebo.
The investment highlights the growing importance of reliable electricity infrastructure in Butebo as local authorities seek to attract investment, expand economic activity, and support value addition in agriculture. The projects reaffirm UEDCL's commitment to strengthening the electricity distribution network, improving reliability, and delivering better quality power to customers across the country.
Key points
- UEDCL invests Shs240m in Butebo District to improve power reliability.
- The projects aim to support growing commercial and industrial activity in the area.
- The investment includes the installation of a 100kVA transformer in Kabarekere Village.
