The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has launched a significant electricity network upgrade project aimed at improving power reliability in the Greater Masaka region, a move expected to reduce persistent blackouts and meet rising demand.
According to Michael Kabanda, the Central Southwestern Regional Manager at UEDCL, the government has already allocated approximately 1 million dollars (about UGX 3.
6 billion) to support key infrastructure improvements in the area.
Kabanda explained that the funding follows a technical assessment that revealed the urgent need to modernize the existing electricity distribution system.
He noted that the investment will help strengthen the network and enable it to handle the growing electricity demand across Masaka and neighboring districts.
Key Areas of the Power Upgrade
The project will focus on reconfiguring major transmission lines, including the connection between Kirumba power substation in Masaka City and Kimwanyi substation in Lwengo District.
It will also involve remodeling the Nyendo–Bukakata power line to better serve Kalangala District.
In addition, UEDCL will upgrade conductors along the Masaka Central and Masaka West distribution lines to improve efficiency and reduce overload on the system.
Kabanda emphasized that some of the existing infrastructure had outlived its design capacity, leading to frequent outages due to overstretched grid demand.
Energy experts, including Joseph Kalungi, the Greater Masaka Region Energy Special Rapporteur at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, have welcomed the project.
Kalungi stated that once completed, the region will benefit from two major power transmission networks directly linked to the main electricity source.
This is expected to significantly stabilize power supply and support economic activities in the region.
He added that the timing of the project is crucial, as electricity demand continues to rise due to urban growth, industrial expansion, and increased business activity in Greater Masaka.
The upgrade is part of a broader government initiative to strengthen Uganda’s power distribution infrastructure.
The funding is tied to a larger financing program aimed at improving energy access and reliability nationwide.
With the completion of this project, residents and businesses in Masaka, Lwengo, and Kalangala are expected to experience fewer power interruptions, improved service delivery, and enhanced productivity.
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