West Nile power is being taken care of

Sep 20, 2009

EDITOR—On July 16, The New Vision published an article entitled “Rights body wants power for West Nile”. The comment that “Government’s failure to establish a reliable power source in the West Nile region is a violation of human rights” was at

EDITOR—On July 16, The New Vision published an article entitled “Rights body wants power for West Nile”. The comment that “Government’s failure to establish a reliable power source in the West Nile region is a violation of human rights” was attributed to the Human Rights Commission officials during the Commission’s visit to Arua.

The Government has made all possible efforts to have power extended to the West – Nile region, by providing reliable power supply which in the interim period consists of a new 1.5mw thermal power generation station, which is an independent power project operated by the West – Nile Rural Electrification Company (WENRECO). In addition, the Government is developing a hydro-power station a Paidha – Nyagak which will generate 3.5mw of electricity.

Government is preparing to provide the required funds to complete this small hydropower project and has also provided financial subsidies to the thermal power station in Arua to offset the escalating diesel fuel costs which were threatening closure of the station. The station is now operating according to the contractual obligations and is supplying power to West Nile on an 18-hour per day schedule.

Other interventions include plans to construct small hydro-power project at Olewa Mvepi I and Mvepi II. Power distribution lines of 33kv and 11kv are planned to be construted from Nebbi to Paskwach, Parombo to Panyumr, Paidha to Vura and Arua to Koboko, to intensify power supply to the region. These projects are at feasibility stage.

A power line from Gulu to Adjumani and Moyo is planned for this financial year (2009/2010). These efforts will be complemented by the use of other energy sources like solar modern biomass and efficient cook stoves.

It is therefore, not true that Government has failed to provide a reliable source of power to the West Nile region.

Bukenya Matovu
For: Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Energy

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