As Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) officially takes over electricity distribution from Umeme, outgoing board chairman Patrick Bitature has tasked the new management board to prioritize a zero-tolerance policy on corruption in ensuring the new entity’s success.

During the handover ceremony at Umeme’s Lugogo offices on March 31, 2025, Bitature highlighted the transformative impact of combating corruption within Umeme, which he credited for the company’s improved performance during his tenure.

“We were the most corrupt entity when I took over at the helm of Umeme leadership until I took a personal mission to fight corruption in the company,” he stated.

Bitature urged UEDCL’s management to prioritize transparency and accountability, stressing that these principles are essential for maintaining public trust and operational efficiency.

He assured the incoming team that they were inheriting a reformed workforce, with 80% of Umeme’s employees transitioning to UEDCL.

“We are handing over to you a mind-changed staff, and I am sure they will deliver,” he remarked

The outgoing chair also called on the Ministry of Energy to recognize and reward hard-working employees, noting that such incentives would foster a culture of excellence.

In addition to addressing corruption, Bitature recommended modernizing Uganda’s electricity infrastructure by adopting underground grids, similar to those in developed countries like Japan. This approach, he argued, would reduce power outages caused by adverse weather conditions

Bitature’s remarks come at a pivotal moment for Uganda’s electricity sector, as UEDCL assumes full control of the distribution network.