July 1, 2025 5:00 pm
By Joy Catherine Nassuuna
As the clock strikes midnight on 1st July 2025, a significant milestone is being marked in Hoima Town- the transfer of distribution operations from Hydromax to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL). With this handover, UEDCL officially assumes responsibility for delivering power to the region’s customer base of 357 users, with 7 load centers and 9–10 megawatts now on the grid from the Kabalega Industrial Park.
This transition follows an official amendment to the license by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), entrusting UEDCL with full distribution rights and responsibilities in the region.
Speaking during the handover, local leaders were emphatic about the importance of continuity and improvement. “The mantle is on you to continue the good work that Hydromax has done. In fact, make sure you handle the customers even better,” the LC3 chairman said while giving his remarks.
The call for improved customer service comes amid growing community demand for electricity in Buseruka Town. Notably, several residents in some areas expressed frustration over the lack of poles, despite a strong desire for electrification.
“UEDCL, you have a task ahead of you. Our people want electricity, but there are no poles. Let’s prioritize this. We shall support you,” the LC3 emphasized.
The handover event also highlighted real-life cases that reflect ongoing service gaps. Among those mentioned was the case of Komaketch Geoffrey, a champion of electrification in his community who ironically still lives in a home without electricity. His situation underscores the urgent need for inclusive and equitable power distribution, ensuring that those serving the public are not left in the dark themselves.
Before taking over Hydromax’s operations, UEDCL had already successfully acquired power concessions from Ferdisult Engineering Limited (2017), Bundibugyo Energy Cooperative Society Limited (2021), Pader Abim Community Multipurpose Energy Cooperative Society (2023), Kyegegwa Rural Energy Cooperative Society Limited (2024), Kilembe Investments Limited (2024) and Umeme (2025). These developments follow the Government of Uganda’s strategic decision to consolidate the electricity distribution segment in accordance with the energy policy 2023.
During the event, the representative of UEDCL’s Chief of Technical Services Eng. Fred Wamala reassured the public that service quality will remain strong and reliable, building on what Hydromax established. He also offered insights into technological improvements, explaining the ongoing transition from traditional meters to prepaid and eventually smart meters, in line with global trends.
“Gone are the days of walking to the cashier after a meter reading. Today, you load power right from your house. Tomorrow, smart meters will do it all remotely.”
Despite the positive developments, UEDCL is not blind to the challenges ahead. Vandalism, power theft and illegal connections continue to pose serious threats to the integrity of the power network.
“Many culprits have been arrested, but none are UEDCL employees,” it was clarified, as efforts to curb these crimes intensify. The company called for community cooperation in protecting infrastructure and reporting illegal activity.
The team from Hydromax, led by Mr. Basker who represented the Hydromax MD, pledged support to UEDCL and expressed gratitude for the great work done.
“Today we handover the distribution line but generation is still on our mantle, we pledge to support UEDCL as the concession holder. I would like to thank the team from Hydromax and the local leaders for all the unwavering support during Hydromax’s time.”
In his remarks, the representative of the UEDCL Managing Director, Mr. Alex Atukunda, promised unwavering commitment. “We will maintain and build upon the excellent service Hydromax has offered. The bar is high, but we are ready.”
He emphasized the availability of a fully-fledged team dedicated to enhancing service delivery, regulated by ERA. To improve accessibility and customer support, two area offices will be operational in Hoima and Kabwoya.
The transition event concluded with appreciation to both local leaders and the Hydromax team for their support. As the region looks to the future under UEDCL’s stewardship, the community remains hopeful and energized.
