Government Launches Shs1.48 Trillion Power Transmission Project

The Ugandan government has officially launched the construction of a massive €342.6 million (approximately Shs1.48 trillion) power transmission project designed to significantly strengthen electricity supply across Eastern Uganda and the Greater Kampala metropolitan area.

Spanning approximately 347 kilometers, the ambitious 400kV Karuma-Tororo project will traverse 15 districts and include the development of associated substations. According to the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, the vital infrastructure is poised to accelerate the country’s socio-economic transformation, create new jobs, and actively support the national industrialization agenda.

Energy and Mineral Development Minister Dr. Monica Musenero officiated the groundbreaking ceremony at the Ntinda substation in Kampala. She emphasized that the network upgrade is essential for delivering reliable power to homes, growing businesses, and expanding regional power trade.

The construction works are scheduled to last for 36 months. They will be executed by Kalpataru Power Transmission Sweden AB under a loan financing arrangement facilitated by Standard Chartered Bank Uganda. The financial backing also features insurance support from Sweden’s Export Credit Agency (EKN) alongside the Swedish Export Credit Corporation (SEK).

Speaking at the event, Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) Board Chairperson Kwame Ejalu noted that the initiative complements ongoing investments in generation, such as the 6000MW Karuma Hydropower Plant. Swedish Ambassador to Uganda Anna Maria also attended the launch, reaffirming her country’s strong commitment to supporting Uganda’s long-term energy and development goals.

Read the original story on the Daily Monitor.