His Highness the Aga Khan IV, who passed away in Lisbon, Portugal, at the age of 88, leaves behind a profound legacy across various sectors including media, health, education, and notably, energy. Among his significant contributions, the Bujagali Energy Ltd (BEL) 250MW hydropower plant stands out as a cornerstone of Uganda’s energy infrastructure. Commissioned by President Museveni on October 8, 2012, this project marked a pivotal shift in the nation’s approach to power generation and economic development.
Bujagali Hydropower Plant: A Milestone for Uganda
Initiated in August 2007, the construction of the Bujagali Hydropower Plant aimed not just to bolster power generation but also to reduce Uganda’s electricity costs in the mid-term. At its peak, the project employed approximately 3,000 workers, including 2,000 highly skilled individuals, thus also contributing to local employment and skill development.
Julius Wandera, Director of Corporate and Consumer Affairs at the Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA), emphasized the plant’s critical role in stabilizing Uganda’s electricity sector and spurring economic growth. The ERA oversees and regulates the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical energy within the country.
Prior to Bujagali’s commissioning, Uganda faced severe power shortages and frequent load shedding, which significantly hindered industrial productivity and economic performance. “The BEL has drastically increased Uganda’s electricity generation capacity, ending the frequent power rationing and supply deficits that had previously crippled economic activities,” Wandera explained.
He further noted, “Before Bujagali, Uganda heavily relied on costly and unsustainable thermal generation. The introduction of Bujagali’s hydropower capacity decreased dependence on diesel-powered thermal plants, leading to lower generation costs and stabilized tariffs.”
The plant not only bolstered manufacturing and agro-processing but also facilitated the growth of commercial enterprises, banking, healthcare, and ICT sectors. “The addition of 250MW to the grid increased the power supply reserve margin, mitigating the risks of system failures and blackouts. Bujagali also catalyzed further investments in grid expansion, improving electricity access, particularly in rural and underserved areas,” Wandera added.
This infrastructure project provided valuable insights and built confidence in Uganda’s capacity to develop large-scale energy projects, setting the stage for additional developments like the Karuma (600MW) and Isimba (183MW) hydropower plants, thus enhancing Uganda’s energy independence.
The late Aga Khan’s initiatives extended beyond Bujagali. Eng Irene Bateebe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, highlighted ongoing projects such as the $400 million Green Hydrogen Fertiliser Plant and the West Nile Rural Electrification Company (WENRECo). These projects aim to reduce dependency on imported fertilizers and enhance energy access in the West Nile region, reinforcing economic resilience and sovereignty.
“As a hydropower plant, Bujagali replaced significant thermal generation, reducing carbon emissions and aligning Uganda with sustainable energy goals. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Wandera concluded.
Eng Bateebe reflected on the partnership with the Aga Khan, “We shared a vision of ensuring energy security for the socio-economic transformation of Uganda, and we condole with the family for such an enormous loss.”
This enduring legacy of His Highness the Aga Khan IV illustrates a deep commitment to enhancing the lives and futures of the Ugandan people through strategic energy solutions.
