
By Cathy Mirembe
Uganda’s electricity sector has witnessed a significant development with the introduction of a new electricity vending name, “Light”. This change marks the end of an era for “Yaka”, the popular brand that has been synonymous with electricity vending in Uganda for over two decades. As Umeme Limited’s concession comes to a close, Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) takes the reins, ushering in a new era in electricity vending.
The transition to “Light” is more than just a rebranding exercise. It represents a significant shift in the country’s electricity distribution landscape. UEDCL, the new distributor, is expected to build on the foundations laid by Umeme, while introducing new innovations and improvements to the vending system. The change is anticipated to bring about enhanced efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction.

One of the key benefits of the new system is the seamless transition for customers. Ugandans will still be able to purchase electricity using the familiar telecom menus, with the only difference being the new “UEDCL Light” branding. This continuity is expected to minimize disruptions and ensure that customers continue to access electricity without hassle.
The introduction of “Light” also presents an opportunity for UEDCL to address some of the challenges that have plagued the electricity vending system in the past. Issues such as power outages, metering discrepancies, and customer complaints will need to be tackled head-on to ensure that the new system is more efficient and responsive to customer needs.
The launch of “Light” marks an exciting new chapter in Uganda’s electricity vending history. As UEDCL takes the helm, it is expected to bring about improvements in efficiency, reliability, and customer satisfaction. While there are challenges to be addressed, the transition to “Light” presents a unique opportunity for Uganda to create a better, more sustainable electricity vending system for the future.