The Government of Uganda has commissioned the Nyagak III Hydropower Project in Zombo District. This is aimed at achieving the country’s plan for affordable energy and rural electrification.
The $20 million project, developed under a Public-Private Partnership, is a 6.6-megawatt facility that is supplying reliable electricity to the West Nile sub-region—an area that has for years remained off the national grid.
Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, who officiated at the commissioning ceremony on Thursday, said the project is not only delivering clean energy but also transforming lives through job creation, skill development, and improved livelihoods.
“Nyagak III stands as a symbol of resilience and collaboration,” said Nankabirwa. “Despite funding withdrawals, COVID-19, and geological hurdles, the project is now a reality delivering reliable power, new jobs, skills, and rural development for the people of West Nile.”
Funded by the Government of Uganda and Afreximbank, the project was implemented by a consortium including Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL), Hydromax Ltd, DOTT Services, and other technical partners.
The project is expected to deliver one of the lowest electricity tariffs in the country, offering a much-needed energy solution for a region that has long suffered from energy poverty.
Phiona Nyamutoro, the Minister of State for Energy, joined Nankabirwa at the launch, celebrating the development as a key achievement in Uganda’s energy agenda.
Beyond immediate electrification, Nyagak III is also aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7 on affordable and clean energy and supports Uganda’s broader industrialization drive.
“This success reaffirms our commitment to building a brighter and more sustainable energy future for all Ugandans,” said Nankabirwa.
With Nyagak III now operational, the government hopes to attract new investments, boost productivity, and improve the quality of life in West Nile and surrounding regions.
