By Caroline .N.
Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited has appointed Eng. Joselynne R.Rwakakooko as its new Acting Managing Director following sweeping leadership changes at the state-owned power distributor.
Her appointment, which took effect on May 2, 2026, comes after the government placed former Managing Director Paul Mwesigwa on forced leave pending a comprehensive review of the company’s management and operations.
The changes were announced shortly after the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development terminated the contract of former board chairperson Lydia Ochieng-Obbo as part of what officials described as efforts to strengthen governance and improve service delivery at the electricity distributor.
Stella-Marie Biwaga Cingtho, who was appointed interim board chairperson, confirmed that Eng. Rwakakooko would take over the day-to-day management of the company during the transition period.
In a statement issued by the board, Biwaga said Eng. Rwakakooko brings more than 20 years of experience in electricity distribution, commercial operations and utility management.
Before her appointment, she served as UEDCL’s Chief Commercial Officer and was part of the senior management team that played a critical role in preparing the company to take over electricity distribution operations from Umeme Limited after the expiry of its 20-year concession in March 2025.
Her appointment comes at a critical moment for UEDCL, which assumed full responsibility for electricity distribution in Uganda after Umeme’s concession ended on March 31, 2025. The transition marked one of the most significant reforms in Uganda’s energy sector in recent years, with UEDCL taking over the management of power distribution infrastructure across the country.
Since taking over operations, the company has faced growing pressure to improve customer service, reduce power outages, expand electricity access and address complaints related to billing and delayed connections.
Government officials have repeatedly emphasised the importance of ensuring stable and affordable electricity supply to support industrial growth and household access.
The Ministry of Energy said the recent leadership changes are intended to enhance accountability and ensure the company remains focused on delivering reliable services to Ugandans.
Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa said the restructuring was necessary to allow a full review of the company’s operations as UEDCL adjusts to its expanded national mandate.
Industry observers say Eng. Rwakakooko’s immediate priorities will include stabilising operations, restoring public confidence and overseeing ongoing investments in power infrastructure.
Her leadership is expected to be closely watched as UEDCL navigates one of the most important transitions in Uganda’s electricity sector.
The board has said interim leadership arrangements will remain in place until substantive appointments are made.