On the 3rd August 2024, Uganda’s longest serving President Museveni commissioned the new 132KV Kole-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua power transmission line in West Nile Sub-region to alleviate the scarcity of electricity and its conundrums.
President Yoweri Museveni marked a significant milestone in Uganda’s pursuit of economic development and infrastructure modernization which has created debate and ringing bells of applauses from beneficiaries and political observers such as Mr.Brian Keitira also the former National Resistance Movement (NRM) parliamentary aspirant for Kyamuswa Constituency in Kalangala District and Head of Hard-to-reach areas section in the office of the National Chairman NRM led by Hajjat Hadijjah Namyalo.
According to Keitira; the strategic project of extending power line to West Nile region not only consolidates the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) image as a driver of progress but also solidifies its support base as the 2026 general elections approach.
To understand why this initiative is beneficial for the ruling government under National Resistance Movement party (NRM), Mr. Keitira who holds a Master’s Degree in Rural Development and Development Economics degree from Makerere University says that it is essential to contextualize it within the frameworks of the National Development Plan III, Vision 2040, and the NRM’s manifesto for 2021-2026.
The National Development Plan III (NDP III), launched in 2020, emphasizes the importance of infrastructure development as a means to stimulate economic growth and improve living standards.
The commissioning of the 132KV power line aligns perfectly with NDP III’s objectives, which aim to increase energy generation and distribution across the country.
By enhancing the electricity supply in West Nile, the power line paves the way for local industries and businesses to flourish, ultimately contributing to job creation and economic resilience.
Furthermore, NDP III highlights the importance of regional development.
As for clarity; The West Nile region, historically underserved in terms of infrastructure, will benefit immensely from reliable power supply, making it a more attractive destination for both local and foreign investment according to Ms Irene Amia also the regional coordinator of the West Nile region in the Office of National Chairman-NRM
As citizens experience firsthand the tangible benefits of enhanced electricity access, their perceptions of the NRM as a responsive and developmental government are likely to improve as the elections draw closer.
Additionally; the Vision 2040 sets a long-term framework for transforming Uganda into a middle-income country through sustainable development by the year 2040.
The National Resistance Movernment (NRM) government and president Museveni have lifted the country to attain middle income status earlier than expected.
A key component of the vision is the expansion of Uganda’s energy production capacity to support the growing demand of citizens and industries alike.
The new 132KV power line is a concrete step towards achieving the vision, showcasing the government’s commitment to future generations.
The Minister of Energy and Mineral development (MEMD) Hon Ruth Nankabirwa with her entire team have also been vital in achieving this big milestone.
This infrastructure development is expected to catalyze a series of other improvements in public services such as education and healthcare, which heavily depend on reliable power supply.
“The NRM pushes for electoral success and the realization of Vision 2040 initiatives will serve as a testament to its governance capabilities, allowing the party to appeal to voters who prioritize long-term growth and development,” observed Keitira.
Uganda’s development aspiration encompasses economic prosperity transiting from production-based approaches to creative and innovative industries.
In this pursuit, electricity has always been earmarked as a fundamental infrastructure to harness the country’s available opportunities for socio-economic transformation especially in agro-business and flourishing industrialization.
Compelling empirical evidence demonstrates that electrification spurs economic development because it creates jobs, enhances socio-economic welfare,and ignites industrialization.
A more direct implication is that electricity availability and use can trigger business start-ups, facilitate value-addition, and as well, improve the productivity of economic resources.
In the 2021-2026 manifesto, the NRM underscores the importance of energy as a critical enabler for achieving national goals, including economic stability and competitiveness.
The commitment to enhance energy infrastructure reflects a direct correlation with the party’s promises to voters. By fulfilling electoral pledges, such as the expansion of energy networks, the NRM strengthens its credibility and fosters trust among the electorate.
Additionally, delivering on such infrastructural projects could act as a differentiating factor in the political landscape.
As opposition parties grapple with their own strategies and policies to overhaul the ruling government following its thirty-eight years at the whelms of governance, Mr Keitira observes that the NRM under president Museveni has confidently showcased its track record of implementing projects that directly improve citizens’ lives.
The commissioning of the power line in West -Nile Sub-region serves as a pragmatic example of the government’s ability to deliver essential services, which could potentially sway undecided voters.
In a nutshell, the commissioning of the new 132KV power line in West Nile is a strategic move by President Museveni and the NRM, aligning with the goals outlined in the National Development Plan III, Vision 2040, and the current manifesto.
“As the nation inches closer to the 2026 general elections, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development led by Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa will not only improve energy access and stimulate economic growth but also enhance the NRM’s standing among voters who seek tangible benefits from their government,” added Keitira.
By continuing to invest in infrastructure projects like the power line, the NRM is poised to reinforce its position as a leading party come 2026 general elections that prioritizes national development, ultimately ensuring electoral success in the forthcoming elections accordingly.
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