Kampala’s Utilities: How to Make the Most of Them

Kampala has many advantages, including the relative stability of water and power compared to other parts of Uganda. However, there are still some challenges and tips you should know to make the most of the utilities available in the city. This article will provide you with some useful information and advice on how to use electricity, water, and garbage disposal services in Kampala.

Electricity

The main electricity provider in Uganda is Umeme, a company owned by a British private equity firm. Umeme has invested over USD 60 million in improving the reliability and accessibility of the power supply in the country. As a result, power outages in Kampala have become less frequent and shorter, especially since the new hydroelectric plant at Bujagali Falls started operating in 2012. Umeme also offers excellent customer service. You can visit their website or call them toll-free at 0800 185 185 to report any issues, check your account, or request a new connection.

However, power disruptions can still happen due to weather, accidents, or maintenance. Therefore, it is advisable to have a backup source of electricity, such as a generator or a solar panel. You can buy a generator from various shops along Kampala Road and Kiseka Market, or you can rent one from companies like Power Hire. Solar power is also a great option to reduce your dependence on the grid and save money on your bills. You can find different types of solar products and services on the Solar Market website, or you can buy a ReadyPay solar kit from MTN Uganda for ugx 40,000

Water

The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), a government-owned entity, is responsible for providing water and sanitation services in Kampala and other urban areas. The quality and availability of water in Kampala are generally good, but there are some factors that can affect it, such as pipe bursts, leaks, or contamination. Therefore, it is recommended to install a holding tank in your home or business, which can store water from the mains and supply it to your faucets and toilets by gravity. You can also boil or filter your water before drinking it or using it for cooking to ensure its safety and taste. A good filter brand is Tiva, which can remove bacteria, viruses, and parasites from the water.

If you have any questions or concerns about your water supply, you can contact the NWSC toll-free at 0800 100 977 or visit their website to pay your bills, apply for a connection, or report a problem. You can also download their mobile app, which allows you to access various services and information from your phone.

Garbage Disposal

Disposal Garbage disposal is not a very common practise in Kampala, as you can see from the smoky rubbish fires that pollute the air. However, there are some private companies that offer waste collection and recycling services for homes and offices, such as Bin It Services, Green Waste Pro, and Plastic Recycling Industries. These companies provide you with plastic bags or bins and then collect them regularly for a fee. They also sort and process the waste and turn some of it into useful products, such as fuel briquettes, compost, or plastic pellets. By using these services, you can help keep the city clean and reduce the environmental impact of your waste.

Through their website, https://binitservices.com/, you can get in touch with Bin It.