UETCL Breaks Ground for Karuma–Tororo 400kV Transmission Line Project
Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) on 22 October 2026 held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Karuma–Tororo 400kV Transmission Line Project at Ntinda Substation in Kampala, marking a significant milestone in strengthening Uganda’s electricity transmission network.
The project, valued at approximately EUR 342.59 million, will evacuate power from the 600MW Karuma Hydropower Plant to Eastern Uganda and Greater Kampala, addressing growing electricity demand.
Speaking at the Ceremony, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Dr Monica Musenero Masanza, highlighted the importance of strategic investments in electricity transmission infrastructure to support Uganda’s development agenda.
“Expanding our electricity transmission infrastructure is critical to meeting the country’s growing energy needs, supporting industrialization and ensuring that power generated reaches the areas where it is needed most.”
UETCL Board Chairman, Mr Kwame Ejalu, underscored the projects strategic importance in advancing the company’s mandate and supporting Uganda’s long-term development priorities.
“This project reflects our commitment to investing in robust and resilient transmission infrastructure and support for economic transformation. The Board remains committed to providing strategic oversight to ensure that investments of this magnitude deliver lasting value to the country.”
Key components include the construction of an approximately 347-kilometre, 400kV double-circuit transmission line traversing 15 districts, a new 400/220/33kV Tororo Border Substation, a 132/33kV Ntinda Substation, and the extension of Karuma Substation.
The project is supported by financing arrangements involving the Government of Sweden through the Swedish Export Credit Agency (EKN). Ambassador Maria Olsson highlighted the importance of continued cooperation in developing Uganda’s energy infrastructure.
“Sweden is pleased to partner with Uganda in advancing strategic infrastructure that strengthens the electricity transmission network and supports the country’s ambitions for sustainable economic growth and development.”
Upon completion, the project is expected to improve bulk electricity supply to industries, businesses and communities, while facilitating cross-border power trade under the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP).
UETCL, the implementing agency, has commenced project implementation activities, including site handover to the contractor and disclosure and compensation processes for Project Affected Persons.
The project aligns with UETCL’s Corporate Strategic Plan, Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and Vision 2040, supporting the country’s industrialisation and economic transformation agenda.
UETCL appreciates the Government of Uganda, the Government of Sweden and all project stakeholders for their continued support towards the development of strategic transmission infrastructure.
UETCL — Transmitting for Transformation.