What will go down in the annals of infrastructural development in Uganda is the commissioning of a big dam built by the Chinese after putting up with a six-year delay. The Isimba Hydroelectric Power Station, likely to increase the nation's energy supply, was inaugurated on September 26th, marking a vital milestone in Uganda's pursuit of energy independence and economic growth.
The $ 567.7 million project was set to be completed in 2018 but faced a string of delays due to financial difficulties, disputes over the quality of construction, and administrative hurdles. Further delay to bring this dam into operation situated on the Nile River in the Kayunga District.
The 183.2-megawatt-installed capacity dam was constructed by CWE under the financial framework provided by the Export-Import Bank of China. The project is one of the tangible outputs of the Sino-Ugandan strategic partnership in which China has sought to complement the BRI in further augmenting infrastructure connectivity across the world.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni described the project as pivotal in the country's budding industrialization plan. He emphasized that besides stabilizing electricity supply through the addition of this Isimba Hydroelectric Power Station to the national grid, the plant would go a long way in averting power shortages, and possibly keep down the cost of electricity for both domestic and industrial consumers.
President Museveni also appreciated the resilience and dedication of all stakeholders who saw the project through its adversities. He said the dam was a testament to the solid economic relationship between Uganda and China, adding that he looks forward to further activities.
Chinese Ambassador to Uganda, Zhang Lizhong added to his credit that: "The successful completion of the dam represents true friendship between the two countries and mutual benefit." He further added that the project has supported socioeconomic development and improved livelihoods for Ugandans.
The commissioning of the Isimba Hydroelectric Power Station is just the beginning of the ripple effect the regional economy will experience in terms of sparking economic sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture, among others that have been crippled by inconsistent power supply. This becomes a very timely development since Uganda is racing against time to fulfill her goals as stipulated in Vision 2040, among them the attainment of middle-income status and ensuring electricity reaches all citizens.
The Isimba dam is one of the major infrastructural projects that join Karuma Hydroelectric Power Station, another Chinese-built project that is due for completion. Arguably, the two projects would cumulatively change Uganda's energy outlook and reiterate the pivotal role that infrastructure investments play in economic development.
The successful commissioning of the Isimba Hydroelectric Power Station has cast light on a path into which Uganda is marching toward an energy-secure prosperous future.
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Author: Megan Clarke
