Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) Board has appointed Eng. Joselynne Rwakakooko as Acting Managing Director, effectively replacing Paul Mwesigwa, who was earlier sent on forced leave amid a sweeping governance shake-up.
In a press release dated May 2, 2026, the Board confirmed that Rwakakooko’s appointment takes immediate effect, positioning her to steer the national power distributor through a period of heightened scrutiny and internal review.
Rwakakooko, who has over 20 years of experience in electricity distribution and utility management, previously served within UEDCL’s senior management. The Board cited her track record in institutional transformation and operational efficiency as key to her appointment.
“The Board wishes to reassure the public, partners, and all stakeholders that UEDCL remains stable and fully operational… This leadership transition will not disrupt ongoing operations,” the statement reads.
The development comes just moments after the government, through Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa, announced the removal of Board Chairperson Lydia Ochieng-Obbo and the decision to send Mwesigwa on forced leave following a review of the company’s management and performance.
The leadership shake-up follows growing concerns over rising electricity losses and operational inefficiencies within UEDCL, barely a year after taking over distribution from Umeme Limited.
Sector reports indicate that energy losses increased from about 15% at the time of transition to nearly 19%, significantly above the national target of 13.65%, raising alarm within government and regulatory circles.
Despite increasing demand, surging to over 1,200MW, and a growing customer base, the distributor has struggled with infrastructure strain, overloaded substations, and system instability.
Transition Amid Sector Sensitivity
The Board, now led on an interim basis by Stella Marie Biwaga Cingtho, praised Mwesigwa for his service but emphasised that the changes are part of broader efforts to strengthen governance, accountability, and service delivery.
“The Board wishes to reassure the public, partners, and all stakeholders that UEDCL remains stable and fully operational. The Company has strong institutional systems and a capable workforce, and will continue to deliver on its mandate with excellence. This leadership transition will not disrupt ongoing operations.
UEDCL remains firmly committed to safety, customer experience, teamwork, integrity, and innovation as it continues to provide reliable electricity supply and services to the people of Uganda.”
The latest developments signal intensified government oversight in the power distribution sub-sector, with UEDCL’s performance seen as critical to Uganda’s energy stability and economic growth.
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