On 7th May 2025, the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), in line with its mandate to promote transparency and effective stakeholder engagement, facilitated a three day- field inspection of electricity infrastructure in Western Uganda by the Parliamentary Committee on Environment and Natural Resources from 7th to 9th May 2025.
The three-day inspection was led by the Committee Chairperson, Hon. Herbert Edmund Ariko, and aimed at strengthening the legislators’ oversight and accountability role in the development and regulation of Uganda’s electricity supply industry.
Day One: Focus on Solar Energy Development
The inspection commenced with a visit to the 20MWp Kabulasoke Solar Power Plant in the Mpigi/Gomba region, developed and operated by M/s Xsabo Group. During the visit, the project developers highlighted the plant’s contribution to the national grid and its social impact on the local community, including the provision of clean water and skills development for youth in renewable energy technologies.
Day Two: Cross-Border Energy Cooperation
On the second day, the delegation, joined by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, toured the 14MW Kikagati Hydropower Plant in Isingiro District. The plant, operated by Kikagati Power Company Limited (KPCL), is a significant regional asset, supplying power to both Uganda and Tanzania.
The MPs also assessed progress on the 132kV Mirama–Kabale transmission line, expressing satisfaction with its completion and the role it plays in improving power reliability and stimulating socio-economic growth in the region.
Day Three: Enhancing Grid Stability in Kigezi
The inspection concluded with a visit to the newly commissioned 132kV Kabale Substation, a critical installation enhancing voltage stability and supporting industrial development in the Kigezi sub-region.
Hon. Ariko commended ERA for consistently engaging Parliament in technical oversight and sectoral updates. He noted that such engagements enhance informed decision-making in the legislative process and reinforce advocacy for sustainable energy development.
Members of Parliament also lauded the sector players for extending their impact beyond power supply, through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as supporting education and healthcare facilities in host communities.