The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) is proud to announce the successful commissioning of the Mirama-Kabale 132kV Transmission Line and Associated Substations Project, an essential infrastructure development aimed at strengthening Uganda’s power transmission network and ensuring the long-term stability and accessibility of electricity supply across the Kigezi region.
The commissioning event, held at the Kabale Substation, was graced by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, Permanent Secretaries, Development Partners, local leaders, and representatives from various sectors.
In her speech, Hon. Dr. Canon Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, the Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support from the local leadership and communities of the Kigezi region. She highlighted the project’s significance in enhancing power stability, supporting rural electrification, and driving socio-economic development.
“Today, we are witnessing the commissioning of a transformative project that will significantly enhance power stability in Southwestern Uganda, particularly in the Kigezi sub-region. This project will in addition to delivering electricity; create opportunities for industrial growth, improved livelihoods, and contribute to the nation’s overall economic development,” said Hon. Nankabirwa.
The Permanent Secretary, Eng. Irene Bateebe, emphasized the significance of the Mirama-Kabale project in supporting Uganda’s energy transition and economic growth. She outlined the key technical components of the project, including the construction of an 85km, 132kV steel tower transmission line and the establishment of two 132/33kV substations in Kabale and Mirama, both crucial for improving power supply stability and supporting rural electrification. She also highlighted the project’s role in laying the groundwork for regional interconnections with neighbouring countries, contributing to cross-border energy trade.
Eng. Bateebe further urged all stakeholders, including local governments and the communities, to actively safeguard the infrastructure by adhering to the Right-of-Way regulations and promoting awareness on the importance of maintaining buffer zones to prevent power outages and infrastructure vandalism.
The project, which traverses through Ntungamo, Rukiga, Kabale, and Rubanda districts, was financed by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) with a loan of USD 83.75 million, under the oversight of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. The Ministry was also pleased to highlight that most project-affected persons (PAPs) had been compensated, with 2,467 paid out of the 2,529 individuals affected persons.
The project is expected to significantly reduce technical losses, improve voltage regulation, and provide reliable power to local industries and communities, enhancing overall economic development in the region.
The project was completed through the collaboration of various stakeholders, including the Ministry, Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), and Development Partners.
The Mirama-Kabale Transmission Line and Substations Project is a key achievement in Uganda’s ongoing efforts to expand its energy infrastructure, with further transmission projects planned to improve power reliability and connectivity across the country.
According to CEO of Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) Mr. Joshua Karamagi; “The successful completion of the project to ensure energy security for the Kigezi region has been made possible as a result of a collaboration with various stakeholders including; the Government of Uganda, the Islamic Development Bank(IsDB), the local community and leadership and Colenco Consulting Ltd. (Nigeria), CCC-GTSCC Consortium (Nigeria), and Ceylex Engineering PVT Ltd. (Sri Lanka).
