By Juma Nsubuga
The Minister of energy and mineral development Ruth Nankabirwa has opened the Renewable Energy Conference 2024 (REC2024) at the common wealth resort hotel in Munyonyo.
The conference is organized under the theme “Transforming Livelihoods Through Clean Energy Access”, underscoring the profound connection between energy and development.
Nankabirwa who will tomorrow be officially Canonized at All Saints Church in Nakasero while giving her keynote address, revealed that this Renewable Energy Conference described the conference as timely.
“We have to ensure that energy support the knowledge economy – development of Science Technology & Innovation and ICT for integration of systems to improve efficiency and productivity” Canon Nankabirwa said adding that inclusive energy development to support the cultural, creative and sports systems including successfully hosting of the African Cup of Nations – AFCON in 2027.
She also stressed the need for affordable and quick-to-deploy clean energy in our sport facilities.
“Delivering Clean Energy for all by 2040, where Renewable Energy will remain pivotal supported by technology developments among other priorities which are aimed at supporting impactful transformation of lives and livelihoods” she added
Nankabirwa further confirmed that at the same time, the Electricity Sub-sector is undergoing reforms the second-generation reforms since the amendment of the Electricity Act, 1999; aimed at consolidating gains, attracting more investments, and improving service delivery.
“To achieve Uganda’s aspirations, we must work together—government, private sector, civil society, and the development community”she stressed adding that collaborative efforts are crucial to developing innovative solutions and mobilizing the necessary investments.
She however, reiterated that the Ministry of Energy and Mineral development together with Government is committed to creating an enabling environment for all these initiatives.
“As we advance, we invite partners to invest in Uganda’s energy sector because there are opportunities in renewables, non-renewables, the mining sector – particularly the critical minerals that support energy transition” she confirmed.
