ISINGIRO
A parliamentary team from the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, accompanied by the Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, have today conducted an oversight visit to the Kikagati-Murongo Hydropower Project in Isingiro District and the Mirama Hills Substation in Ntungamo District.
The MPs are on a three day oversight field inspection of the country’s electrical infrastructure. This visit, organised by Electricity Regulatory Authority is to enhance the capacity of the Members of Parliament, equipping them to better execute their oversight and accountability roles in the management and development of Uganda’s electrical infrastructure.
During the visit, legislators were briefed on several operational challenges impacting energy generation and distribution in the region. Among the key issues raised was the proliferation of water hyacinth, which has affected head parameters at Kikagati-Murongo, compromising plant efficiency. Additionally, recurring grid faults and limitations in switchgear maintenance—largely attributed to Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO)—have led to unreliable service delivery and plant outages.
Hon. Nankabirwa also highlighted infrastructure bottlenecks at the Karuma Hydropower Plant, where 600 megawatts of generated power remain undispatched due to inadequate transmission and distribution networks. She emphasized the urgent need for increased investment in power transmission and distribution systems to enhance accessibility for underserved communities.
“The energy sector plays a crucial role in our country’s development, and addressing these challenges is paramount. We must work towards strengthening infrastructure to ensure reliable power supply for all Ugandans,” she stated.
The visit underscores growing concerns about Uganda’s energy sector and the need for sustained investment to optimize power generation, improve reliability, and expand electricity access nationwide.
