Construction of the First Independent Power Transmission Project in Africa commenced in Mbarara District, Western Uganda, following ground breaking by Amari Power Transmission SMC Limited.
As Africa’s first privately financed electricity transmission project to achieve Financial Close, the commencement of construction marks a critical milestone for Uganda’s Electricity Sub-Sector; and its implementation reflects growing investor confidence in the country’s regulatory environment and further demonstrates the increasing role of private capital in developing strategic Electricity infrastructure.
It is anticipated that the project, once completed, will improve grid reliability, enhance the evacuation of existing and planned power plants, support regional power export, and contribute to long-term energy security in the region.
The project, which was Licensed by the Electricity Regulatory Authority in 2025, took center stage during the official visit of the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for International Development and Africa, Rt. Hon. Baroness Chapman, who joined Government officials to witness the groundbreaking ceremony for the project. The project that entails the upgrade of high voltage transmission substations in Tororo, Mbarara North, Mbarara South and Nkenda is a landmark investment, which reinforces Uganda’s commitment to expanding Electricity Infrastructure through private sector participation.
In developing the said project, Amari Power shall rely on the experience of its parent company, Gridworks Development Partners Limited Liability Partnership (LLP), a British International Investment Company, which has vast experience in the development of Transmission and Distribution power infrastructure in Africa.
Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, described the project as a landmark investment for Uganda’s Energy Sector, noting that it reflects the country’s commitment to positioning energy infrastructure as a driver of economic transformation and wealth creation.
Baroness Chapman, the UK Minister for Africa and International Development, noted that “Uganda is one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies and a key UK Partner. Together, we are strengthening that relationship in practical ways. This is modern partnership in action: showing up, building together, and shifting from donor to investor”. She reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s economic growth through investments in infrastructure, clean energy, and agriculture.
The Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), Eng. Richard Matsiko affirmed that the project aligns with UETCL’s Strategic Plan 2025–2030, to develop a resilient and efficient transmission network capable of supporting Uganda’s growing Electricity demand, industrialization, and Regional power trade.
The project by Amari Power Transmission SMC Limited is the pioneer project licensed by the Electricity Regulatory Authority, under the Independent Power Transmission framework that became effective following the Amendment of the Electricity Act, 2022. END