Muhwezi announces sh36 billion for rural power distribution

Cabinet has approved a $11.2million loan (sh36billion) from Kuwait Fund for power distribution and extension in six districts.

Minister of Information and National Guidance Jim Muhwezi said the project will introduce 285km of new power lines in Kasese, Kibaale , Nebbi, Bushenyi, Rukungiri and Kiryandongo.

The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development will seek parliament’s approval soon, Muhwezi told journalists Thursday. The project will be implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency in the districts.

The project infrastructure will include 33 Kilo Voltage and 11Kilo Voltage for manufacturing and domestic use respectively.

“The project will boost rural connectivity, which is key in promoting agro-processing industries, welfare of social services and reduced rural migration in targeted districts,” Muhwezi said.

“Among the NRM centered policies, investing in power generation and distribution remains a key priority to increase access throughout the country.”

According to Uganda’s Rural Electrification Strategy Plan 2013, the framework is designed to roll out power distribution in rural areas.

Muhwezi calls upon the parliament to give thumbs up towards the loan so that the project can start immediately.

CABINET APPROVES NARO COUNCIL

 Cabinet has approved sixteen members of the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) Council who will serve three years.

The 2005 amended act empowers the NARO Council to guide and coordinate all agricultural research activities in Uganda.  Cabinet approved Prof. Joseph Obua as the chairperson, Monica Kabatooro, Margaret Ebuu, Patrick Cheborin and others as members