Staff Reporter
In response to the upcoming demonstration on August 10, 2024, against frequent power outages, UMEME Kabale has stated that they are also facing financial losses due to these issues.
Kabale residents are organizing a peaceful demonstration titled “March to UMEME Office Kabale” to express their dissatisfaction with the power supply, which is significantly affecting local businesses. This public outcry has pressured UMEME officials to address the concerns.
Mario Auma, the Stakeholders Manager at UMEME, explained that power outages are impacting their ability to sell their product, contributing to their losses. He urged the residents of Kabale to collaborate with UMEME to resolve the issue, with a resolution expected by early next year.
Mario further explained that Kabale receives power from Mbarara because, during colonial times, the power infrastructure was designed for domestic and administrative use only, not for industrial purposes.
He added that the situation will improve once the substation in Karukara, Hamurwa Town Council, Rubanda District, is operational. He mentioned that those planning the demonstration may not be fully aware of ongoing efforts to address the problem.
The Mirama-Kabale 132 kV transmission line and its associated substation, constructed by the consortium of CCC International Engineering Nigeria Limited and Substation Construction Co. Ltd, are currently 55% complete and are expected to alleviate power outages in the Kigezi region.
