The Government of Uganda has initiated leadership changes at the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) as part of ongoing governance and oversight measures in the energy sector.
Newly appointed chairperson of the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), Ms Stella Marie Biwaga, has named Eng Joselynne Rwabogo Rwakakooko as acting Managing Director, effective May 2, replacing Mr Paul Mwesigwa, who was sent on forced leave on Saturday.
“The Board of Directors of UEDCL wishes to inform the general public, stakeholders, and partners of the recent governance and management changes at the company. Effective May 2, 2026, the Board has appointed Eng Joselynne R. Rwakakooko as acting Managing Director of UEDCL,” Ms Biwaga wrote in a statement dated May 2, 2026.
According to Ms Biwaga, Eng Rwakakooko brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served within the senior management team and possessing over 20 years of experience in electricity distribution, commercial operations, and large-scale utility management.
“She has a proven track record of leading institutional transformation, improving operational performance, and delivering sustainable growth within complex and evolving power sector environments,” Ms Biwaga added, extending “her sincere appreciation to the outgoing Managing Director, Mr Paul Mwesigwa, for his dedicated service to UEDCL over the years.”
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, authorities confirmed that a review of the company’s management and operations is underway. As part of this process, the Board Chairperson has been removed, while the Managing Director has been placed on forced leave to allow for a comprehensive assessment of the institution.
To ensure continuity of operations, shareholders have appointed an Interim Board Chairperson. The Board has also designated an Acting Managing Director to oversee day-to-day operations during the transition period. These interim arrangements will remain in place until substantive appointments are made.
The Ministry described the measures as part of routine efforts to strengthen institutional performance, enhance accountability, and improve service delivery within the energy sector. It emphasized that the actions are standard governance procedures in public institutions.
Authorities reassured the public and stakeholders that electricity distribution services will continue without interruption during the review period. UEDCL remains responsible for power distribution across much of the country.
The statement, signed by Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, called for patience and cooperation from stakeholders as the government works to reinforce governance structures and operational effectiveness at the utility.
Who is Eng Rwakakooko?
Eng Rwakakooko is a registered engineer and member of the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (MUIPE). She is a primary architect behind UEDCL’s emergency response teams and grid expansion projects, ensuring power distribution remains stable during the country’s energy sector transitions.
Prior to being named to her current position, her previous role as Chief Commercial and Operations Officer, saw her manage the pulse of the national grid.