Ric Energy Group, a Spanish company, has expressed frustration with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) for delaying the implementation of a waste-to-energy project in Dundu, Mukono District.
The project, which aims to convert waste into energy, has the potential to alleviate waste management challenges in Kampala and generate clean electricity. However, the company claims that KCCA has been slow in finalizing the necessary agreements and permits.
Rajesh Chugh, CEO of Ric Energy Group, stated that the company has completed all the required studies and invested millions of dollars in the project. He urged KCCA to expedite the process and finalize the financial terms.
"We have completed all the required detailed studies at Dundu, and a project progress report has been sent to KCCA, but we have not received any feedback," Rajesh stated.
Ric Energy plans to invest 200 million dollars in the Dundu project, which focuses on transforming waste into energy, generating 20 megawatts (MW) of electricity.
The 200 million dollar initiative aims to tackle significant waste management issues and enhance the country's energy potential.
Musoke Esero, a partner at Ric Energy, expressed his frustration with the delays from Kampala Capital City and urged them to expedite the process as their memorandum of understanding is set to expire in December 2024.
At the same time, residents of Dundu village in the Kyampisi district of Mukono are eagerly anticipating the commencement of the project; they have requested that the Kampala Capital City Authority expedite its plans to establish a waste-to-energy power plant in their region as previously promised.
Joseph Senwogerere, the chairperson of Buntaba village, mentioned the poor road conditions, the absence of clean piped water, and high unemployment levels in the area, stating that once the project begins, they will gain access to such services and have employment opportunities.
"Our community is facing a lack of clean water; at present, we have four water sources that are in very poor condition, our high hopes for Kampala Capital City Authority to improve the situation," stated Semogerere.
In reaction, Kyampisi Sub County Chairman Jamil Yiga stated that leaders continue to oppose the disposal of waste in Dundu, emphasizing that if there is a feasible plan that would not adversely affect the residents, it should be presented for the community's input.
However, it is important to mention that proposals to set up a waste recycling facility in the Dundu area faced substantial opposition from some residents and officials, with some choosing to take legal action against KCCA for bringing waste to the residential neighborhood of Dundu.