Japan to Aid Uganda with Alternative Energy Projects

Uganda is to receive a little expert assistance from Japan in the construction of a hydropower plant. The Asian country has agreed to send a team of experts to assist the Ugandan government in preparing for the construction of the proposed 500 MW Ayago Hydropower Project.

In addition to sending a team of experts for the hydropower plant, the Japanese government plans to support Uganda in the extraction of phosphates fertilizers and the production of biofuel using the jatropha plant.

News of the Asian country’s intentions was revealed following a meeting between Daudi Migereko, Uganda’s Energy Minister, and Japanese Ambassador to Uganda, K. Kato

"Without enough electricity supply, it will be impossible to industrialize, let alone modernize the country. The government strategy is to overcome power shortage. There is a need to support the Energy Fund which the Government has created to provide funds which can reduce delay in developing power projects," said Migereko.

He said the two governments signed an agreement worth $6.5 million for the construction of rural electrification projects in Masaka and Hoima districts.

The Japanese government also agreed to participate in the implementation of the Bujagali Inter-connector Project under a co-financing arrangement with the African Development Bank.