STELLA T
Residents and leaders in Buyanja Sub County, Rukungiri District, have expressed frustration over the lack of electricity in their area, which they say has hindered development in several trading centers.
Phiona Beinomugisha, the area councilor for Rubanga Parish, highlighted the adverse impact on residents’ daily lives. She explained that many people must travel long distances to access essential services such as food processing facilities, including milling factories, and basic amenities like barbershops and phone charging stations. Beinomugisha called on relevant authorities to intervene and provide electricity to these communities.
Sylvia Turinawe, the area councilor for Nyakabungo and Kasheeshe Parishes, echoed similar concerns. She noted that despite residents’ active participation in elections, leaders have failed to address their pressing needs, leaving many frustrated. Turinawe explained that residents who had planned to establish businesses like salons were forced to relocate to areas with electricity, hindering local economic growth. She urged authorities to address the community’s concerns urgently.
Agaba Emmy Rubondo, the LCIII chairperson for Buyanja Sub County, emphasized that the lack of electricity has prevented communities from engaging in income-generating businesses such as welding, salons, popcorn production, and bars. He questioned why most villages in the sub-county were excluded from the rural electrification program.
Albert Rwamuugata, the district councilor for Buyanja Sub County, noted that while some residents with higher incomes rely on solar power, this is unsustainable in the long term. He challenged Members of Parliament to intensify efforts to lobby for electricity connections in these areas. Rwamuugata further noted that the rural electrification program had been halted, and when resumed, leaders must prioritize lobbying for the affected communities.
