Power Dams Urged to Prioritise Safety and Preparedness
Ugandan authorities have urged hydropower operators to prioritise Uganda dam safety by enhancing monitoring systems and implementing strong emergency response measures. This call follows growing concern about potential risks linked to the country’s expanding hydropower network.
Government Emphasises Safety and Vigilance
The government commended Bujagali Energy Limited for developing and sharing its Dam Break Emergency Response Plan. During a sensitisation workshop in Kampala, officials praised the company for leading efforts to build awareness and train other energy sector players on disaster readiness.
In a speech read by Mr Julius Wabula, Assistant Commissioner for Hydropower Generation, Ms Irene Batebe, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy, said Uganda’s progress in electricity access must align with strict safety standards. She urged dam operators to ensure that facilities remain structurally sound, well monitored, and equipped with effective emergency plans.
“Today’s discussions reaffirm an important truth—dam safety and preparedness are not optional. They are part of sustainable hydropower and public safety,” she said.
She highlighted that Uganda’s power infrastructure along the Nile—spanning Nalubaale, Kiira, Bujagali, Isimba, and Karuma—plays a vital role in energy security and regional trade.
Read Also
Strengthening the Hydropower Sector
The workshop, hosted by Bujagali Energy Limited, brought together engineers, regulators, academics, and emergency response authorities to share knowledge and build capacity. Mr Alastair McDougall, General Manager of Bujagali Energy, said the event marked a major step toward strengthening emergency readiness across Uganda’s hydropower sector.
Ms Batebe applauded the company for developing, testing, and publicly sharing its emergency plan. She said such initiatives foster collaboration, encourage routine plan reviews, and promote a culture of vigilance. She also called for community awareness and data sharing between dam operators and government agencies to form part of Uganda’s early warning systems.
Why Dam Safety Matters
Mr Michael Taremwa Kananura, Chief Finance Officer of Bujagali Energy, explained why dam safety should concern every Ugandan. He noted that a dam break could unleash massive flooding downstream, destroying homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
“Uganda has never experienced a dam breakdown, and we don’t expect one,” he said. “However, risk assessments show that dam failure, though unlikely, could have far-reaching effects. That’s why we developed a response plan to ensure no lives are lost if such an event ever occurs.”
He cited incidents in Nigeria as proof that East Africa must take disaster preparedness seriously. “If it happened here, everyone downstream would feel the impact because all the water stored in one place would be released,” he warned.
Ensuring Stability and Preparedness
Ms Anne Gitta, who oversees structural monitoring at Kiira and Nalubaale Dams, said recent inspections confirm that Uganda’s oldest dams remain stable. She explained that regular safety assessments and instrument readings keep the facilities within safe operational limits.
“Our dams are monitored closely, and emergency plans exist to prevent chain reactions if one facility fails,” she said. “Bujagali Energy’s leadership in this sensitisation effort is commendable.”
She further explained that dam operations require constant attention. “While dam-related accidents are rare, their consequences can be devastating. Operators must work with all agencies because a collapse affects everyone downstream,” she added.
A Shared National Responsibility
Uganda’s growing energy sector depends on the safety of its hydropower infrastructure. Ms Gitta emphasised that complacency could prove dangerous. “If dam failures happen elsewhere, they can happen here too. We must stay alert and ready to respond,” she said.
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment to enforce strict safety standards, maintain clear communication channels, and strengthen emergency response plans across all power stations.
By promoting preparedness and cooperation, Uganda aims to ensure that dam safety remains at the heart of its sustainable energy future—protecting lives, property, and the country’s vital power network.
