NEBBI – The West Nile sub-region, comprising 13 districts, has finally bid farewell to decades of erratic power supply from the West Nile Rural Electrification Company (WENRECo) and thermal-generated power from Electromaxx. The Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) successfully energized the Nebbi sub-station on Saturday, July 27, 2024, marking a historic milestone in the region’s integration into the national grid.
The districts of Adjumani, Arua City, Arua District, Koboko, Maracha, Terego, Madi-Okollo, Moyo, Nebbi, Pakwach, Terego, Yumbe, and Zombo will now benefit from a stable and reliable power supply, courtesy of UETCL. This development is expected to transform the region’s economy, businesses, and residents’ quality of life.
“Today, UETCL energized the Nebbi substation in preparation for the commissioning of the Kole-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua transmission project which will connect West Nile to the grid,” UETCL announced on Monday night.
Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa expressed her excitement ahead of President Museveni’s launch, signaling the government’s commitment to achieving nationwide access to the national grid. “We are committed to implementing the Vision 2040 and National Development Plan III through the completion of various power transmission projects,” she said.
A historic milestone for Nebbi and the Government of Uganda (GOU)! Today, UETCL energized the Nebbi substation in preparation for the commissioning of the Kole-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua transmission project which will connect West Nile to the grid. The Ministry of Energy, through UETCL,… pic.twitter.com/80xyLFqKjm
— UETCL (@uetcl) July 29, 2024
UETCL boss, Joshua Karamagi, confirmed the successful energization of the Gulu – Olwiyo 132kV line portion of the Kole – Gulu – Nebbi – Arua (KNGA) project, extending the transmission grid to West Nile. “The connection of the West Nile sub-region to the National Grid will occur this August, following the successful completion of the construction of the Kole- Gulu- Nebbi- Arua Transmission line,” he added.
This achievement marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to address the region’s energy challenges and promote economic development in West Nile. The connection to the national grid is expected to spur growth, improve livelihoods, and enhance the overall quality of life for the region’s inhabitants.
The Gulu – Olwiyo 132kV line portion of the Kole – Gulu – Nebbi – Arua (KNGA) project extending the transmission grid to West Nile was successfully energized on Saturday 27/04/24. Congrats to the team @uetcl, let’s keep the collective efforts to the finish line. @KwameEjalu pic.twitter.com/9wGAvdzHnT
— Joshua Karamagi, CFA (@UETCL_CEO) April 28, 2024
The West Nile region has long suffered from power outages, which have hindered economic growth and development. The reliance on thermal-generated power from Electromaxx has been costly and inefficient, making it difficult for businesses and residents to operate effectively.
With the connection to the national grid, the region is expected to attract new investments, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. The reliable power supply will also improve healthcare services, education, and overall quality of life for the residents.
The government’s commitment to expanding access to electricity across the country is evident in the completion of various power transmission projects. The connection of West Nile to the national grid is a testament to the government’s efforts to address the region’s energy challenges and promote economic development.
As the region prepares for the official commissioning of the Kole-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua transmission project, residents and businesses are eagerly awaiting the benefits of a reliable power supply. The historic connection to the national grid marks a new era for West Nile, and a brighter future for its inhabitants.
