The opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has challenged the government to explain why Uganda continues exporting electricity to neighbouring countries while millions of citizens still experience unreliable power supply and others remain without access to electricity.
Addressing journalists at the party headquarters in Najjanankumbi on Monday, FDC Vice Chairperson Robert Centenary questioned the government’s electricity export priorities, arguing that domestic consumers should also benefit from the country’s energy resources.
Centenary said it was unfortunate that Ugandans continue to experience power interruptions, with businesses suffering financial losses due to unreliable electricity supply, while neighbouring countries receive electricity generated in Uganda.
He acknowledged that exporting electricity generates foreign exchange and promotes regional cooperation but questioned the justification for prioritising external markets when many Ugandan communities still struggle to access reliable power.
Centenary argued that although regional electricity trade is important, government should ensure that domestic demand and access to electricity receive adequate attention.
According to data from the World Bank’s World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS), Uganda exported electricity worth approximately US$60.47 million in 2025, equivalent to about 618.3 million kilowatt-hours.
The figures indicate that Kenya accounted for the largest share, importing electricity worth approximately US$25.10 million, followed by Rwanda at US$17.82 million and Tanzania at US$17.21 million. Exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo were valued at approximately US$342,680.
By Charles Katabalwa
2nd Nov 2026
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