Nansana celebrates subsidised power connection program funded by World Bank
Residents of Nabweru Division in Nansana Municipality, Wakiso District have experienced a transformative moment as they gain access to subsidized electricity connection through the Energy Access Scale-Up Project (EASP).
Funded by the World Bank, this project aims to enhance electricity access across Uganda, significantly impacting local communities.
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The government of Uganda, with a substantial $638 million loan from the World Bank, is spearheading the EASP, commencing this month.
This initiative aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which prioritizes energy access as a crucial element for national development.
The government has set ambitious targets to achieve 60 percent electricity access by 2027 and 80 percent by 2040, with the EASP playing a pivotal role in these efforts.
Abdon Atwine , a commissioner from the Ministry of Finance, highlighted the project's broad appeal, noting a surge in applications from various communities around Kampala.
"We have received a lot of applications from different communities, and this is going to reduce the cost of accessing power," Atwine stated.
The subsidized rates are expected to alleviate the financial burden on residents, making electricity more affordable and accessible.
Residents like Doreen Nabasa of Katooke, Nabweru Division, have long struggled to afford electricity connections.
"We have tried to get electricity in our area but in vain. To access electricity, one has to pay Shs 700,000 for poles and connection, but we couldn't afford it," Doreen shared.
The EASP's subsidized rates at Shs41,000 is a welcome relief for families like hers, who have faced financial barriers to accessing this essential service.
The project is designed to have a national scope, targeting both urban and rural areas, including refugee and host communities.
The focus on providing increased access to electricity and clean energy cooking services is particularly significant for these vulnerable populations, ensuring that the benefits of development are equitably distributed.
On June , 17, during in Luwero district, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, elaborated on the project’s progress.
"We have started the implementation of this project, put in place committees, and we are now contracting out," Nankabirwa announced.
She emphasized the inclusive nature of the project, stating, "We shall target those who have poles within their vicinity and we will connect them freely, provided that houses are connected by certified people."
This initiative is a significant milestone for the residents of Nabweru Division and beyond, promising to transform lives by improving access to essential electricity services.
As the EASP progresses, it is set to drive Uganda closer to its vision of widespread energy access, fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
