The Kampala South substation upgrade marks a major step forward in Uganda’s push for a more reliable electricity network. The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has successfully increased the substation’s capacity from 20MW to 34MW. This improvement will strengthen grid reliability along Entebbe Road and surrounding neighborhoods, directly benefiting more than 108,000 households and approximately 650 commercial consumers.
The project involved commissioning a new 10/14MVA transformer and forms part of UEDCL’s national grid optimisation programme. As a result, power outages in the area are expected to decrease significantly. Moreover, the enhanced infrastructure will support growing energy demand while improving operational resilience across the distribution network.
Minister for Energy and Mineral Development Ruth Nankabirwa praised UEDCL for completing the upgrade ahead of schedule. She emphasized that the Kampala South substation upgrade aligns with the government’s goal of delivering stable electricity nationwide by 2026. “The commissioning of a new 10/14MVA transformer at Kampala South Substation will significantly improve supply reliability, reducing outages and enhancing operational resilience within the distribution network,” Nankabirwa stated.
In addition, the minister highlighted that this intervention reflects UEDCL’s core mandate: ensuring consistent and dependable power supply. She also noted that similar upgrades have already taken place at substations in Kakiri, Kabale, Masaka, Kumi, and Mubende. Together, these projects demonstrate the government’s serious commitment to modernizing Uganda’s energy infrastructure.
According to UEDCL officials, the Kampala South substation upgrade is not just about meeting current needs. Rather, it is a forward-looking investment designed to accommodate future electricity demand. Because the Entebbe Road corridor continues to attract residential and commercial development, a robust power supply is essential for sustained economic activity.
Furthermore, these grid enhancements play a crucial role in Uganda’s broader development strategy. By reducing frequent outages and improving voltage stability, UEDCL’s efforts help businesses operate efficiently and households enjoy uninterrupted service. Ultimately, reliable electricity serves as a foundation for industrial growth, job creation, and improved quality of life.
Looking ahead, UEDCL plans to continue rolling out similar upgrades across the country. Given the success of the Kampala South substation upgrade, stakeholders expect even greater improvements in service delivery in the coming months. As Uganda moves closer to its 2026 energy reliability targets, this project stands as a clear example of progress in action.
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