The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) on Monday convened a high-profile public dialogue under the banner of the Kigo Thinkers Baraza, bringing together key voices from the energy, media, and regulatory sectors to engage in a robust discussion on the future of electricity distribution and tariff structures in Uganda.
The event, held in Kampala, was moderated by veteran broadcaster and media personality Oscar Semweya Musoke, and featured a distinguished panel of thought leaders and industry practitioners. Among them was Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako, the Chief Executive Officer of ERA who outlined regulatory priorities aimed at improving electricity delivery across the country.
Joining her on the panel was Dr. Frank Sebbowa, former CEO of ERA, whose decades-long experience in Uganda’s energy space provided historical context and technical insight. Mr. Angelo Izama, a respected journalist and policy analyst, contributed a media and civic engagement perspective, while Mr. Blessing Nshaho, Chief Corporate and Strategy Officer at Umeme Ltd, provided the utility’s outlook on operational efficiency and private sector engagement.
The baraza, attended by industry stakeholders and energy consumers alike, also welcomed Mr. Richard Byarugaba, former Managing Director of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), as well as a technical team from the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL). Representatives from prominent media houses and consumer advocacy groups contributed to a lively and transparent exchange.
The dialogue focused on pressing issues facing Uganda’s electricity distribution sector, including regulatory bottlenecks, service delivery gaps, rising demand, and the need for sustainable financing models. Panelists emphasized the importance of attracting cost-effective capital into the distribution segment, improving reliability, and ensuring equitable tariff structures that protect vulnerable consumer categories.
Eng. Waako reiterated ERA’s commitment to inclusive and transparent decision-making. “We believe in stakeholder-driven solutions,” she said. “Bringing everyone to the table—from policy experts to consumers—helps us build a stronger, more responsive electricity sector.”
Discussions also highlighted the role of technology in enhancing efficiency, and the need for reform in power distribution systems to reduce technical and commercial losses. Participants called for increased collaboration between regulators, distributors, and civil society to drive change in the sector.
The Kigo Thinkers Baraza is part of ERA’s strategy to deepen public engagement and align electricity reforms with national development goals.