OPINION
By Doreen Atusasire
The UEDCL ‘WETELEEZE’ campaign, while a commendable step in the ongoing battle against power theft in Uganda, is not a complete solution on its own. The primary reason is that power theft is a multi-faceted problem driven as much by economic desperation and systemic issues as it is by a lack of awareness or a simple disregard for the law.
The campaign focuses on awareness and legal repercussions, which are necessary restrictions. However, they do not address the root economic causes. Many Ugandans engage in power theft not out of malice, but because they simply cannot afford the high cost of legal connection and monthly tariffs.
The campaign is an amnesty that allows people to pay for their electricity without penalty, but it doesn’t tackle the underlying reasons people resort to theft in the first place, such as the cost and complexity of getting a legal connection.
High connection costs and the cost of meters remain a significant barrier for many Ugandans, making legal connections out of reach. The process of getting a new legal connection is often slow and cumbersome, failing to keep pace with urban growth.
The campaign’s effectiveness in the long term is questionable without a stronger, consistent enforcement mechanism to deter future theft.
Until electricity becomes more accessible and affordable for a larger segment of the population, a purely punitive or awareness-based campaign will only be partially effective. The risk of legal action may deter some, but for those facing economic hardship, the immediate need for power often outweighs the future risk of punishment.
There is a need for systemic solutions that require a holistic approach that goes beyond public service announcements for instance improved infrastructure and technology. Investing in anti-tamper meters and smart grid technology can physically make it harder to steal power, reducing opportunities for theft regardless of public attitude.
UEDCL and the government should consider implementing measures like subsidies or more affordable payment plans to make legal connections more accessible.
Effective enforcement is also crucial for example if citizens perceive that the rules are inconsistently applied or that some UEDCL employees are themselves complicit in illegal connections, the campaign’s message of rule of law is undermined. Combating internal corruption within the utility company is as important as prosecuting external offenders.
The most sustainable solution is to reduce the incentive for theft. This means working towards more affordable tariffs and accessible connection schemes, ensuring that legal electricity is a viable option for a broader demographic.
The UEDCL ‘WETEEZE’ campaign plays a vital role in educating the public and setting the stage for a change in culture. It is an essential component of a larger strategy.
However, to truly tackle power theft in Uganda, it must be paired with concrete economic reforms, technological investment, and robust internal enforcement. Only a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy will provide a complete and lasting solution to this persistent issue.
