Govt announces free power connections for one million poor households

Summary:

• The Ugandan government, backed by a $638 million World Bank fund, plans to provide free electricity connections to one million impoverished households through the Energy Access Scale-up Project, aiming to increase overall electricity access and improve infrastructure across the country.

---

The Ugandan government is set to provide complimentary electricity connections to at least one million financially disadvantaged households nationwide. Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa disclosed this initiative during the annual general meeting of the Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL).

Scheduled to kick off early next year, the Energy Access Scale-up Project (EASP) will receive financial backing from the World Bank, amounting to $638 million (equivalent to over Shs2.36 trillion). Minister Nankabirwa outlined the project’s focus on households facing challenges in affording electricity connections, with beneficiaries receiving a distinctive red box containing switches and sockets to facilitate power access.

The installation of the red box, equipped with two switches and two sockets, aims to empower recipients to illuminate their homes and charge electronic devices. The minister underscored the government’s dedication to reducing darkness across all regions and improving electricity accessibility.

Launched in early 2022, the EASP aims to enhance energy access for households, businesses, and institutions through both grid and off-grid connections. Minister Nankabirwa articulated the ministry’s objective to raise electricity access from the current 58 percent to 80 percent by 2025 and achieve 100 percent by 2030.

In reporting the financial progress of UEGCL, CEO Harrison Mutikanga highlighted significant growth in revenue, profits, and asset value. The company’s prudent financial management and strategic investments played a pivotal role in its positive financial performance. The UEGCL’s plans to augment generation capacity include the anticipated completion of the 600MW Karuma Dam in August next year.

However, challenges related to funding for government projects were acknowledged by UEGCL Board Chair Proscovia Margaret Njuki. State Minister for Finance Evelyn Anite, representing the government’s stake in UEGCL, pledged additional funding and addressed concerns regarding salary discrepancies. The Ugandan government’s commitment to providing free power connections aligns with broader initiatives to enhance energy accessibility and infrastructure nationwide.