UECCC launches €13.1m hydropower project to light up rural Uganda

Uganda’s rural communities are set to benefit from a major boost in electricity access, thanks to a new mini hydropower project.

The Uganda Energy Credit Capitalization Company (UECCC) is leading the initiative, which involves the construction of nine mini hydropower plants across seven districts.

The project, worth 13.1 million Euros, is being funded by the Netherlands Government’s ORIO Infrastructure fund, with co-financing from the Ugandan government.

According to UECCC Managing Director Roy Nyamutale Baguma, the project aims to provide electricity to over 71,000 households and 2,300 small businesses.

“The mini hydropower plants will provide a reliable and stable source of power, reducing the challenges associated with transmitting electricity over long distances,” Mr Baguma explained.

The project sites were selected based on their social impact, rather than commercial viability, and are designed to support the Ugandan government’s policies on rural electrification.

Work on the project is already underway, with all affected communities having been compensated and resettled.

The initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the socio-economic development of the region, improving livelihoods and supporting local businesses.

“We look forward to working with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this project,” Mr Baguma added.