energy 19 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kisoro Set for National Grid Linkup, Ending Long-Time Rwanda Power Dependence
Uganda plans to integrate Kisoro Town into the national electricity grid, replacing decades of imported power from Rwanda. This upgrade promises more stable supply, lower business costs, and a boost to local economic activities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kisoro-to-be-connected-to-national-grid-after-decades-of-relying-on-rwanda-imported-power-5396682
Kisoro Town in southwestern Uganda is poised for a major upgrade with plans to connect it directly to the national electricity grid. For decades, the area has depended on power imports from neighboring Rwanda due to limited infrastructure.
UEDCL officials announced the approved initiative during a media event in Kabale. Territory manager Ian Namanya explained that a new substation in Karukara, Rubanda District, now makes this connection viable, addressing past reliability issues.
Recent improvements include swapping a 2.5MVA transformer for a 5MVA one at Kabale substation and replacing old poles. Since April 2025, UEDCL added 1,768 connections, replaced 437 meters, and hit full revenue targets while boosting customer service via digital tools like WhatsApp.
Kisoro Municipality MP-elect Sam Byibesho hailed the move as a game-changer. He noted that Rwanda-sourced power was often unreliable and low-voltage, pushing businesses to costly generators. Grid access will cut expenses and spur industrialization.
With over 17,000 of its 26,000 residents’ households already electrified, experts predict gains for small industries, tourism, and border trade.
Future steps involve refurbishing Kabale facilities and expanding access. Source: Daily Monitor