VANNESSA A
Residents of Kashenyi Parish in Ngoma Subcounty, Rushenyi County, Ntungamo District, are lamenting the prolonged lack of electricity, which they say has significantly affected their businesses and livelihoods.
Gordon Nabaasa, a businessman in Kashenyi Trading Centre, expressed frustration over the situation, stating that many residents took out loans to wire their houses in anticipation of electricity, but six years later, they are still waiting.
Wilson Nkubaana, the LC1 Chairperson of Bunutsya Cell in Kashenyi, revealed that despite years of appeals for electricity, nothing has been done. He noted that during the 2021 NRM primary elections, leaders brought electricity poles, but no further progress has been made since then. He called on responsible authorities to intervene, particularly to support businesses such as salons that rely on electricity.
Fred Agaba, a resident of Kashenyi Town, highlighted the challenges faced by dairy farmers. He explained that although they have seven coolers powered by solar energy, these are ineffective during the rainy season, leading to milk spoilage. This, in turn, reduces milk prices due to poor preservation.
Residents also raised concerns about health facilities in the area, stating that the lack of electricity has slowed down services, forcing many patients to be referred to Rubare, which is several kilometers away.
However, Rushenyi County Woman Member of Parliament, Naome Kabasharira, assured residents that electricity services would be available within two to three weeks before the end of March.
