On 28th February 2025, the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom at Bulange Mengo. The meeting was graced by Oweek. Prof. Twaha K. Kaawase, the First Deputy Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom.

The ERA delegation, led by Eng. Judith Nayiga, the Director of Technical Regulation, highlighted the Authority’s critical role in regulating Uganda’s Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) to ensure efficiency and sustainability. Eng. Nayiga noted that Uganda’s electricity generation capacity has grown significantly over the past two decades, from 180MW to over 2,000MW, with an ambitious goal of achieving 80% electricity access by 2040.

She further assured the Buganda Kingdom of a seamless transition as Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) takes over electricity distribution services following the expiry of the Umeme concession, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr. Vianney Mutyaba, the Manager of Pricing at ERA, provided insights into the ongoing electricity sector reforms. He highlighted that electricity producers can now sell power directly to consumers, a move aimed at improving efficiency in the industry. He also underscored the urgent need to curb vandalism, noting that it accounts for 80% of electricity supply interruptions and significantly affects reliability.

In his remarks, Oweek. Prof. Twaha K. Kaawase commended ERA’s regulatory efforts and acknowledged Uganda’s progress in electricity generation and rural electrification. He, however, urged the government to reduce VAT on electricity connections from 18% to 10% to lower connection costs. He also expressed hope that UEDCL’s takeover would lead to lower tariffs and improved electricity reliability, particularly for critical institutions such as hospitals. Additionally, he called on ERA to clarify tariff fluctuations and reaffirmed the Buganda Kingdom’s commitment to promoting electricity awareness and combating vandalism.

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ERA pledged support for the upcoming Kabaka Birthday Run, including purchasing kits for its staff to participate in the event as part of this noble cause.

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