By Patriot Corps
Kiryandongo, Uganda – On 26th September 2024, Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo delivered a manificient speech at the commissioning of the Karuma Hydropower Project and its interconnection infrastructure in Kiryandongo District. In her address, Vice President Alupo hailed the project as a transformative step in Uganda’s energy journey, marking a significant milestone in the country’s pursuit of sustainable development and industrialization.
The 600-megawatt Karuma Hydropower Plant is set to bring Uganda’s total power generation capacity to 2,000 megawatts, significantly bolstering the nation’s energy infrastructure. “This project is a reflection of our commitment to transforming Uganda into a prosperous and industrialized nation,” Alupo stated. She emphasized that the plant would play a crucial role in propelling Uganda towards achieving Vision 2040, with the Karuma Project serving as a catalyst for economic growth, industrial expansion, and improved livelihoods.
Vice President Alupo extended her appreciation to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL), and Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), along with the contractors, sub-contractors, and project steering committee for their tireless efforts in delivering this flagship project. She also lauded the leadership and residents of Kiryandongo, Nwoya, Oyam, and neighboring districts for their patience and cooperation throughout the project’s implementation.
The Vice President underscored the NRM government’s 2021 manifesto, which recognizes electricity as a cornerstone of national development, impacting various sectors including health, education, food security, and gender equality. With universal access to electricity targeted by 2030, Uganda aligns with the global Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, and the East African Community Vision 2050, which aims to increase regional energy production to over 70,000 megawatts.
Beyond power generation, Alupo highlighted the social benefits brought to local communities through corporate social responsibility initiatives. New hospitals, schools, and other amenities constructed alongside the project have enhanced the quality of life in the region. “This is a clear demonstration of how large-scale infrastructure projects can uplift communities,” she said.
Looking forward, Alupo reiterated Uganda’s ambition to reach 52,000 megawatts of generation capacity by 2040, with renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal forming a vital part of the country’s energy mix. She also emphasized the government’s commitment to extending electricity to rural areas through the Rural Electrification Program, ensuring that every Ugandan benefits from this progress.
Vice President Alupo acknowledged the international cooperation that made the Karuma Project a reality, thanking Sinohydro Corporation, technical consultants, and financiers such as the Exim Bank of China. She also recognized the continued support from the Government of China, indicating readiness for further investments in Uganda’s electricity sector as part of the ongoing discussions under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
The commissioning of the Karuma Hydropower Project marks the start of a new chapter in Uganda’s energy story. “This is not just the culmination of years of hard work but the beginning of a new era,” Alupo concluded. In closing, she invited President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to officially commission the project and address the gathering.
The Karuma Hydropower Project stands as a testament to Uganda’s energy ambitions, ensuring a brighter, more prosperous future for the country as it moves closer to energy security and economic resilience.