Uganda’s West Nile region, home to about three million people, has recently turned a new page in its development journey. Once isolated from the national electricity grid and heavily reliant on diesel generators, the region is now benefiting from Chinese-funded hydropower projects that are lighting up homes and businesses alike.
The commissioning of two new electricity substations in West Nile marks a significant milestone. For decades, residents depended on kerosene and firewood for lighting and energy needs. According to a 2018 report by Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, firewood and timber accounted for 85 percent of the primary energy source in the region, leading to environmental pollution and deforestation.
Uganda’s national energy landscape faced challenges in the past. Before the 1990s, the country had a generation capacity of just 150 megawatts, insufficient for its growing population. Even with the construction of the 250 MW Bujagali Hydropower Plant in eastern Uganda, funded by Western banks, demand had reached 500 MW by 2013. The installed capacity barely met consumption needs, leaving little room for growth.
Enter China’s investment and expertise. Through collaboration and the infusion of production capacity, China has played a pivotal role in expanding Uganda’s energy infrastructure. The hydropower projects in West Nile not only provide reliable electricity but also spur economic growth, improve living standards, and reduce environmental degradation caused by the overuse of biomass fuels.
The transformation in West Nile is a testament to the positive impact of China-Africa cooperation. By addressing critical infrastructure needs, such partnerships are paving the way for sustainable development across the African continent.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
