MICHAEL N
Local leaders and residents in Rwanda Parish, Bwongyera Sub County, Kajara County in Ntungamo District, have expressed frustration over the persistent lack of electricity in their area. Residents say they are still living in what feels like the “ancient era,” relying on lamps and candles for light in their homes.
Nuwagaba Josepht, a resident of Kiina Village, noted that the absence of electricity has limited opportunities for youth employment. He explained that businesses such as salons and welding workshops, which would keep young people engaged and productive, cannot operate without power. Josepht further revealed that although their transformer was recently repaired after being out of service for 10 months, electricity only reaches a few trading centers, leaving most villages in darkness.
Vincent Kwetejeka, the LC1 Chairperson of Kiina Village, listed the most affected areas as Rutuntu, Kishoko, Rwabakunga, Rwengo, Nyabubare, and others. He said that residents depend on solar systems, which become unreliable during rainy and cloudy seasons. This forces them to travel long distances just to charge their phones or access basic services like shaving.
Vincent also expressed concern about Rwanda Health Centre III, which operates without electricity. He explained that some medicines requiring refrigeration often expire due to lack of storage facilities, endangering the lives of patients from Bwongyera, Nyamunuka, and Kibatsi. He appealed to district health authorities to prioritize power supply to the health facility.
In addition, Vincent highlighted the absence of NIIRA registration services in the area, noting that residents have to travel to Rwamabondo Town for national identity registration since computers and machines cannot function without electricity.
Bwongyera Sub County LC3 Chairperson, Isaac Akamwesiga, admitted that lack of electricity has disrupted local development initiatives. However, he assured residents that sub-county leaders are engaging district authorities to ensure power is extended to underserved villages.
Ntungamo District LC5 Chairperson, Samuel Mucugunzi, acknowledged the challenges but emphasized that the district is large and cannot be electrified at once. He explained that UEDCL, the new electricity distributor, is first working on restoring connections and installing transformers in areas that previously had electricity, before rolling out to new villages. He urged residents to remain patient as efforts to expand coverage continue.
