Politicians’ Demands Overwhelm Energy Minister

(Munyonyo) – With Uganda’s national election season approaching, Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa has claimed she is overwhelmed with requests from government officials for electricity connections to their constituencies. Ministers and Members of Parliament (MPs) are reportedly pushing for increased access to power in rural areas, hoping to appeal to voters ahead of the polls.

The influx of requests, which Nankabirwa described as overwhelming, reflects the political climate’s intensifying pressure. “I’m being approached by some ministers and many Members of Parliament requesting me to connect electricity to their constituencies,” she said. “There are so many applications in my office because the campaign period is near.” She shared this insight while attending a renewable energy conference at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo on October 31.

While Nankabirwa did not disclose specific numbers or names of the officials requesting power, she outlined her department’s priorities. According to her, the focus remains on extending electricity to seed schools, health centers, and trading hubs, where the impact on public services and businesses is most critical.

“We can’t have schools operating in darkness. Without electricity, computers become mere apparatus,” Nankabirwa explained. “The government also wants fully functioning health centers with reliable power supply, and business communities in trading centers need access to electricity to drive economic activity. We aim for significant improvements in livelihoods and to draw more investments in energy access.”

To support these goals, Nankabirwa emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and various sectors, including civil society, academia, and private enterprises. She highlighted how partnerships in renewable energy could enhance access to electricity, particularly in underserved areas.

The event also brought supportive messages from international partners. British Council Commissioner Lisa Chesney advocated for a stronger commitment to ensuring all students across Uganda have access to electricity. She urged the government to continue investing in renewable energy sources, underlining the sector’s role in economic growth and social development.

Chesney added that innovation and partnerships would be essential to building sustainable energy solutions and improving living standards. “We need to focus on creating meaningful change in the livelihoods of Ugandan citizens,” she stated.

The energy conference, where these remarks were made, featured a range of renewable energy solutions, including improved cook stoves aimed at reducing fuel consumption. Minister Nankabirwa was seen inspecting these products, showing support for sustainable technologies that could meet the country’s energy demands.

Electricity Connection Priorities:

Nankabirwa expressed appreciation for the support of development partners in Uganda’s energy sector, stressing that their financial resources and expertise are essential to the country’s progress.