The UMEME to UEDCL transition marks a significant turning point in Uganda’s energy sector as the 20-year electricity distribution concession with UMEME comes to an end in March 2025. As part of the planned transition, Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) will fully resume control of power distribution, while a new prepaid metering system known as “Light” is set to replace the long-standing “Yaka” system.
This shift is intended to streamline service delivery, reduce inefficiencies, and reassert public ownership over national electricity distribution. For millions of Ugandans, the change comes with questions about service continuity, tariffs, billing systems, and the future of energy access in the country.
Why UMEME Is Exiting and UEDCL Is Taking Over
UMEME, a private power distributor, has managed electricity distribution in Uganda since 2005 under a concession agreement with the government. Despite extending access to millions and contributing to grid expansion, UMEME has faced persistent criticism over high tariffs, delayed maintenance, and profit-oriented service models.
The government opted not to renew UMEME’s concession, instead mandating UEDCL—a state-owned utility—to take over. The UMEME to UEDCL transition is seen as a move to reduce the cost of electricity, improve accountability, and enhance public trust in electricity distribution.
UEDCL has been gradually preparing for the takeover, including investments in infrastructure, human resources, and digital systems to ensure a seamless changeover.
Goodbye Yaka, Hello Light: A New Era of Prepaid Billing
The transition isn’t limited to management alone. One of the most notable changes is the replacement of the Yaka prepaid metering system with a new platform named Light. Yaka has been used since 2009 and became synonymous with prepaid electricity in Uganda.
Light promises a smarter, more transparent, and customer-friendly experience. It will integrate mobile money, provide real-time usage tracking, reduce recharge delays, and include a stronger fraud detection mechanism.
As part of the UMEME to UEDCL transition, UEDCL has assured consumers that existing Yaka meters will not be rendered obsolete immediately. A phased rollout of Light is expected, allowing time for consumers and vendors to adapt to the new system.
Consumer Concerns and Government Assurances
Consumers have raised concerns about billing errors, meter replacements, and whether the transition will lead to higher tariffs. The government, through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, has assured the public that tariffs will be regulated by the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), and that no arbitrary price hikes will occur.
The ministry has also emphasized that customer service will be improved, outages will be better managed, and response time for complaints will be reduced under UEDCL.
During the transition, a joint task force composed of UMEME, UEDCL, ERA, and Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) is monitoring operations to ensure no disruption in power delivery.
What the UMEME to UEDCL Transition Means for Uganda’s Energy Future
The UMEME to UEDCL transition reflects Uganda’s broader strategy of asserting energy sovereignty, lowering electricity costs, and increasing universal access. As the country moves toward industrialization and rural electrification, the efficiency and integrity of its power distribution system will be crucial.
There’s also growing interest in integrating renewable energy sources into the national grid, and UEDCL’s public model may allow for more equitable partnerships with solar and hydro-based providers.
However, success will depend on how well UEDCL manages the transition, sustains the infrastructure investments made by UMEME, and builds public confidence in the new system.
Conclusion
As Uganda says farewell to UMEME and welcomes UEDCL and Light, the transition presents both opportunities and risks. If managed well, this shift could lay the foundation for a more accessible, transparent, and reliable energy future for the nation.
