STELLA T
Residents and leaders of Kataruka Village, Kanyinya Ward, Southern Division, Rukungiri Municipality, have expressed concern over the lack of electricity in their area. They say that the absence of power has hindered development, leaving several trading centers struggling to progress.
Twijukye Enock, the LC1 Chairperson of Kataruka Village, stated that the lack of electricity has significantly affected daily life. He explained that residents must travel long distances to access essential services such as food processing facilities, milling factories, and barbershops, as well as to charge their phones. He urged the relevant authorities to intervene and extend electricity to their community, especially since the government has prioritized rural electrification.
Gideon Turyamubugana, the area councilor for Kanyinya Ward, echoed the concerns of the residents. He highlighted their participation in elections, only to be disappointed by leaders who have failed to address their needs, leaving them frustrated.
He noted that many residents had planned to start economic ventures such as salons but were forced to relocate to areas with electricity, hindering local development. He called upon the authorities to address this issue while urging residents to be patient as the government works on restoring electricity supply.
Denise Ngabirano, the LCIII Chairperson of Southern Division, Rukungiri Municipality, emphasized that the lack of electricity has prevented communities from engaging in businesses that require power, such as welding, salons, popcorn production, and bars.
He questioned why many villages in his sub-county were left out during the implementation of the rural electrification program. He noted that the program had been halted but expressed optimism that once it resumes, relevant leaders should lobby for the affected communities. He added that the area’s Member of Parliament has already assured them that electricity will be extended to the area before the end of the year.
