The Government of Uganda has announced a significant investment of UGX 240 billion aimed at extending electricity access to rural areas in the West Nile region.
This initiative, revealed by Hon. Feta Geoffrey, Chairperson of the West Nile Parliamentary Caucus, focuses on powering institutions, trading centers, and households to stimulate economic growth and improve living standards.This development follows the recent commissioning of the 289 km Kole–Gulu–Nebbi–Arua 132 kV transmission line, which connected the West Nile sub-region to the national electricity grid.
The project has provided the region with a capacity of 90 MW, significantly surpassing the current demand of 6 MW, which is projected to rise to 10 MW within a year.President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni emphasized the need to establish industrial parks in the region to utilize the surplus power effectively.
He urged local leaders to identify suitable land for such developments, highlighting the potential for exporting electricity to neighboring countries like South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The UGX 240 billion investment is part of the broader Electricity Access Scale-Up Project, supported by the World Bank. This project aims to increase electricity access at the household level, commercial enterprises, industrial sectors, and public institutions. Under this initiative, all customers within a 90-meter radius of the existing grid will benefit, requiring minimal infrastructure for connection.
Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, acknowledged the challenges faced in rural electrification and assured that the government is committed to addressing these issues.
She noted the upcoming completion of the 6.5 MW Nyagak III power station in Zombo District, which will further enhance the region's power supply.Local leaders have welcomed the government's commitment but have called for expedited connections to underserved areas. Emmanuel Orombi, LCV Chairperson of Nebbi District, highlighted that only 10% of sub-counties are currently connected, urging for broader coverage to ensure equitable access to electricity.
The government's strategic investment in West Nile's electrification marks a significant step towards achieving universal electricity access by 2030, fostering economic development, and improving the quality of life for millions in the region.
