Gov’t Extends Power‑Theft Amnesty to October 31; Over 22,900 Connections Regularized
Gov’t extends power‑theft amnesty to October 31 as over 22,900 Ugandans regularize electricity connections
Kampala — The Uganda government has extended its national power‑theft amnesty campaign (locally called Wetereze) until October 31, 2025, citing high public uptake. To date, over 22,900 households and businesses have voluntarily come forward to regularize illegal or tampered electricity connections without penalties, the Energy Ministry says.
Background & Purpose
The Wetereze campaign began on July 23, 2025, originally planned to end on September 30.
It allows customers who have unauthorized connections, bypassed meters, or tampered meters to come forward, register, and regularize their electricity accounts without facing fines or prosecution.
The government frames this move as both a revenue recovery measure (to reduce losses to theft and meter tampering) and a safety initiative, since illegal wiring causes fires, electrocutions, and system damage.
Progress & Outcomes So Far
Over 22,900 Ugandans have already taken advantage of the amnesty.
Since the government took over electricity distribution from Umeme, the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) has replaced 206 faulty transformers, expanded capacities in key substations, and connected about 140,000 new customers.
New substation land has been secured in Magyigye and Kawempe, and plans are underway to refurbish substations, install extra transformers, and expand medium‑voltage lines before end of year.
Challenges & Risks
Vandalism: The minister warned that infrastructure vandalism remains a major challenge, especially in areas like Kololo, Mukono, Kayunga, Masaka, Mpigi, Luwero, Nakasongola, Mityana, Mubende, and Mbarara.
Late adoption: Some households may wait until the last days of the amnesty, creating surges which strain administrative systems.
Implementation in remote areas: Rural or peri‑urban areas may lack capacity for quick inspections, meter provision, or connectivity to the grid.
Sustainability: Once the amnesty ends, enforcement mechanisms must be strong to deter relapse into illegal connections.
Significance & Future Outlook
The extension signals strong public uptake and political will to recapture lost revenue.
If successful, it may improve utility financial health, reduce blackouts, and enhance billing efficiency.
After October 31, the government will likely transition to stricter enforcement, possibly coupled with punitive measures for repeat offenders.
This initiative ties into the broader push to modernize Uganda’s electricity distribution infrastructure under its 5‑year energy strategy.
