Breaking News Uganda: Residents of Mubende Municipality can finally breathe a sigh of relief after UMEME installed a new transformer in Kisekeende A village on November 29, 2024.

The move followed protests and threats of strikes over a prolonged power outage that affected three villages and caused significant losses.

The Power Outage Crisis in Mubende

The prolonged power outage in Kisekeende A and neighboring villages stirred frustration among residents and local leaders.

Many struggled with the lack of electricity, which affected their daily activities and businesses. Local leaders and residents took action, raising concerns and demanding that UMEME address the issue.

Media Attention Helps Solve the Problem

Abraham Kigguundu, the Kisekeende Ward Councillor, credited Next Media’s platforms, including NBS TV and Nile Post, for bringing the issue to the public’s attention.

He stated that the media coverage played a crucial role in influencing UMEME to act swiftly.

“We have spent so much time going to UMEME offices in vain. Thanks to Next Media’s story, today we have a new transformer,” said Kigguundu.

Averted Strike Thanks to Timely Action

Residents were on the verge of organizing strikes due to the ongoing power outage.

However, after the issue gained media attention, UMEME responded quickly, installing a new transformer in the area.

Local residents expressed their gratitude, noting that the media coverage made a significant impact.

“We were ready to strike, but the media story helped us get the attention we needed.

Now we have the transformer, and we’re hopeful for better service,” said one resident.

Concerns Over Transformer Security

While residents and leaders appreciated the swift installation of the new transformer, there were concerns about its safety.

Sylvia Nassazi, the chairperson of Namagogo Village, urged UMEME to protect the transformer from tampering, particularly by grasshopper dealers who have been known to cause issues in the area.

“We appreciate the new transformer, but I urge UMEME to make sure that grasshopper dealers are kept away.

We have suffered enough because of these issues,” Ms. Nassazi said.

Ongoing Efforts to Improve Electricity in Mubende

Peter Kityamuweesi, the Manager for UMEME’s Mubende branch, reassured residents that UMEME is committed to improving electricity distribution in the region.

The company is working on new wire distribution to ensure all users have access to electricity, and plans are in place to add another transformer in the area soon.

“We are working on new wire distribution to ensure all users have electricity

Another transformer will be added in the area soon,” Mr. Kityamuweesi confirmed.

Step Toward Reliable Power Supply

The installation of the new transformer marks a significant step toward restoring reliable electricity in Mubende.

However, local leaders and residents remain vigilant, calling for sustainable solutions to prevent future outages.

The Role of Media in Community Action

This episode highlights the power of media in amplifying community issues and driving timely action.

Thanks to the efforts of Next Media’s platforms, UMEME was able to address the power outage crisis and restore electricity to the affected villages in Mubende.

The quick intervention and ongoing efforts from UMEME provide hope for more reliable electricity in the future.

Residents, however, remain cautious and are calling for continued improvement in the region’s electricity infrastructure.