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As you may already know, Umeme has handed over power distribution to Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), and the Yaka service has been rebranded as Light.
However, the process of buying electricity remains unchanged; only the terminology has been updated.
To buy Light using Airtel, dial 165*4*1*2# and select the Light token option.
To pay for Light using MTN, dial 165*4*1*1# and choose Light to pay.
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Once you complete these steps, you'll be prompted to enter your meter number, followed by the amount you wish to pay and your password. A token will then be sent to you via SMS.
If you prefer not to use your SIM card for purchasing Light, other payment platforms are available, such as those at supermarkets or banking agents.
In addition, the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) announced new electricity tariffs for April to June 2025, following UEDCL's official takeover of power distribution from UMEME on March 31.
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The new tariffs, which took effect on April 1, show slight reductions across most end-user categories.
This adjustment aims to make electricity more affordable for Ugandans while factoring in demand growth and currency fluctuations. ERA’s Board Chairperson, Dr. Sarah Wasagali Kanaabi, noted that the tariff revisions were made considering a projected 10.4% increase in electricity demand for 2025.
The slight appreciation of the Uganda Shilling against the US Dollar also influenced the tariff changes, with the exchange rate standing at Shs3,679 as of February 2025.
The lifeline tariff remains unchanged at Shs250 per unit for eligible domestic customers. Domestic tariffs have slightly decreased from Shs775.7 to Shs756 per unit for consumption beyond the first 15 units.
Commercial tariffs have also dropped, from Shs572 to Shs546 per unit. Medium industrial tariffs are now reduced from Shs417 to Shs355 per unit.