The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) has successfully concluded a 14-day stakeholder engagement exercise in the Tooro and Kigezi sub-regions, which commenced on 2nd – 14th  March 2026, as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen electricity service delivery, improve consumer awareness, and deepen accountability within the energy sector.
The engagements brought together political leaders, security agencies, certified wire persons, business community representatives, media practitioners, and electricity consumers. Discussions centred on electricity reliability, infrastructure protection, safety compliance, tariff awareness, and the ongoing transition in electricity distribution following the end of the Umeme concession.
A significant portion of the discussions focused on the transition to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL). ERA’s technical teams clarified the regulatory framework guiding the transition, outlined the investments needed to stabilise the network, and updated stakeholders on the 2026 Tariff Review and the factors that drive electricity tariffs. Local leaders in both cities raised concerns over outages, response times, and service quality, and ERA reaffirmed its commitment to holding the sector accountable to consumers.
Tackling Vandalism and Power Theft
ERA met with security agencies to address electricity infrastructure vandalism and power theft challenges that disrupt supply and push up costs. The Authority stressed that electricity infrastructure is a critical national asset, and security leaders committed to strengthening community collaboration to curb these acts.
Safety and Compliance for Wirepersons
Certified wirepersons were engaged on the Installations Permit Regulations and the importance of approved electrical installation standards. ERA cautioned against the use of uncertified electricians, noting that unsafe electrical works remain a serious risk to life and property.
Empowering the Media
Dedicated sessions for journalists from both regions focused on electricity sector terminology, tariff structures, and responsible reporting. The sessions aimed to support accurate coverage of issues such as base tariffs, automatic tariff adjustments, and sector reforms.
Business Community Concerns
Businesses, particularly in tourism and hospitality, highlighted the impact of power interruptions on operations and competitiveness. ERA noted that substation upgrades underway in Kabale and planned switchgear inspections in Fort Portal are part of broader efforts to reduce unplanned outages in the region.
ERA encouraged consumers in Tooro and Kigezi to use its regional office in Mbarara and official communication channels for complaints, inquiries, and regulatory guidance.