Uganda Electricity Distribution Limited (UEDCL) has taken over the role of managing the nation's power distribution from Umeme. With this change, they have rebranded the YAKA prepaid electricity service to "Light."
Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, emphasized that the newly named "Light" system will function as usual without any disruptions for customers. She highlighted that services to buy electricity would still be available through common platforms like MTN, Airtel, and other existing service channels. During a ceremony, she informed attendees that the service would now appear as 'UEDCL Light' on telecom company menus.
Mr. Selestino Babungi, the outgoing CEO of Umeme, remarked at the ceremony about the critical aspects of the country's energy future. The event marked the end of Umeme's tenure as a leading power distributor in Uganda.
At the inaugural Uganda–China (Liaoning) Mining and Petroleum Investment Promotion Conference held in Shenyang, China, discussions centered on enhancing bilateral relations and encouraging investments into Uganda’s energy and mineral industries. Key figures from both nations participated, including leaders and investors.
Paul Muganwa will continue to serve as the Head of Corporate & Investment Banking while undertaking new responsibilities. The Ministry has announced that despite Umeme's departure, customers can continue purchasing electricity using platforms like MTN, Airtel, and FINTECH, though the Umeme Touch Pay service will be discontinued.
UEDCL assures that the transition to the "Light" system will be seamless, ensuring that all previously bought YAKA units remain valid even after the transition, which is set for completion by March 31. Customers are reassured that there will be no changes to their meter numbers or service interruptions.
The company will maintain operation of the service centers and offices, including those previously managed by Umeme. UEDCL owns several of these facilities and will lease others to ensure continuous service availability.
