Sam Amanya
Residents of Bwambara Sub County in Rukungiri district are expressing frustration over the absence of electricity in their area, which they argue is impeding their community’s progress. They highlight the financial burden and safety risks they endure by resorting to alternative power sources such as solar panels, batteries, and generators, often resorting to hazardous methods like candles and oil lamps.
Rukundo Onesmus, representing Nyabubaare Parish as an area Councilor in Bwambara Sub County, disclosed that while electric poles were installed in some parts of Bwambara back in 2017, others remain without any infrastructure, dashing hopes of imminent electrification. He emphasized the adverse impact of this lack of electricity on local development, citing missed opportunities for businesses, factories, and other ventures, which have either postponed operations or relocated to areas with reliable power.
Onesmus criticized the approach of surveying engineers, accusing them of conducting assessments without involving local leaders, leaving the community in the dark about plans for electrification and raising suspicions about ulterior motives behind these surveys.
Chris Kagayano, serving as the Chairperson of LC.3 in Bwambara Sub County, acknowledged that electrification is a national endeavor but assured residents that their concerns have been communicated to the appropriate authorities, including the area’s Member of Parliament. He urged patience while promising concerted efforts to address the electricity deficit soon.
