Uganda is actively pursuing funding to construct three new hydropower plants along the Nile River, aiming to add over 1,600 megawatts (MW) to its energy capacity in response to increasing demand, according to an official from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.
The largest of the proposed projects is the 840 MW Ayago plant, with the 400 MW Kiba and 392 MW Oriang plants also planned. Together, these projects would raise Uganda’s total energy production by about 80%, reaching 3,678 MW.
Wamala Julius Namusanga, a junior official at the ministry, emphasized the growing power needs, noting a 10% annual rise in demand. He confirmed that the ministry is already seeking consultants for the Kiba project and is engaged in discussions with investors.
Currently, 85% of Uganda’s electricity comes from hydropower, with the rest sourced from thermal and solar plants. The country recently launched its largest power facility, a 600 MW hydropower station, funded through a $1.7 billion loan from China.
Namusanga added that Uganda is also exploring nuclear energy, with support from China, as part of its strategy to diversify its energy sources.