In a pivotal move signaling Uganda's dedication to increasing energy access across the nation, members of the Electricity Access Scale-Up Project (EASP)'s Steering Committee were formally sworn in today (Wednesday) at a ceremony observed by the country's leading figures in the energy sector.

Ruth Nankabirwa, the esteemed Minister of Energy and Minerals Development, took to Twitter to express her excitement, noting, "I witnessed the swearing-in of the members of the Electricity Access Scale-Up Project (EASP)’s Steering Committee." The tweet underscored the significance of the event and its potential impact on Uganda's energy landscape.

According to Nankabirwa, at the heart of this ambitious initiative is the Steering Committee, which is composed of 19 eminent representatives from key government entities. Taking the lead role as the chairperson is Irene Bateebe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.

The EASP initiative, which has garnered substantial international attention and support, is backed by robust funding of $638 million from the World Bank. Its primary mission is to amplify energy accessibility to households, businesses, and various institutions. This is envisioned to be achieved through a comprehensive mix of grid and off-grid connections.

“The EASP, supported by @WorldBank funding of $638m, aims to increase energy access for households, enterprises, and institutions through grid and off-grid connections, aligning with Uganda's Vision 2040, NDP II and III, and SDG 7 for universal energy access by 2030,” Nankabirwa noted.

The project's goals resonate with several of Uganda's overarching visions and plans. It aligns seamlessly with the country's Vision 2040, the National Development Plan (NDP) II and III, and more significantly, the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7, which aspires for universal energy access by 2030.

The establishment and swearing-in of the EASP's Steering Committee mark a decisive step towards realizing these objectives. As Uganda seeks to power its future, the collaboration between local expertise and international funding bodies will be pivotal. The road ahead, though challenging, now seems brightly lit thanks to initiatives such as the EASP.

Residents, businesses, and stakeholders across Uganda are watching with keen interest, hopeful that the EASP will bring transformative change and illuminate millions of lives across the country.