Kagadi residents demonstrate over month-long power outage
He announced that UEDCL has committed to delivering and installing a new transformer by April 25, 2025.
Kagadi: Transport and business operations in Kyanaisoke sub-county, Kagadi District, were brought to a standstill Tuesday morning after angry residents staged a demonstration protesting a power outage that has persisted for nearly a month.
The protest, which began at around 7:00 AM, saw participation from members of the business community including barbers, welders, and other operators who rely heavily on electricity.
Residents expressed deep frustration over the unfulfilled promises of power restoration from both local leaders and the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL).
The blackout reportedly began after a reckless grader driver knocked down an electricity pole, damaging the area’s transformer. Although UEDCL officials visited and removed the damaged transformer, it has yet to be replaced, leaving the community in the dark.
Margaret Sanyu, a local businesswoman who owns a fridge, shared her struggle: “My business has stalled completely. Without power, I can’t keep my goods fresh.”
Mr. Brian Atuhirwe, Chairperson of the Kyanaisoke Business Community, criticized the slow response: “They took the transformer weeks ago and we’ve had no updates. We feel abandoned.”
Residents also accused their elected leaders of failing to follow up effectively on the issue. Although police intervened and asked protestors to disperse peacefully which they did the residents have warned that further demonstrations will follow if no action is taken soon.
Hon. Christopher Katwesige, Speaker of the Kyanaisoke sub-county, called for calm, assuring residents that leaders have been engaging with area Member of Parliament Hon. Musana Eric Acaali. He announced that UEDCL has committed to delivering and installing a new transformer by April 25, 2025.
In a related issue, residents also raised health concerns over poor waste management from a local school. A strong stench engulfed the Kyanaisoke trading center after workers hired to empty school toilets allegedly mismanaged the disposal, with waste spilling into nearby homes and businesses.
The school’s director declined to comment on the incident, though locals linked the mismanagement to the ongoing power crisis, claiming the director had previously used power-operated waste management systems.
The Kyanaisoke sub-county health team has since stepped in to mitigate the health hazard.
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