The Government of Uganda has officially commissioned the long-awaited Nyagak III Hydropower Project, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to improve energy access, drive regional development, and unlock investment opportunities in the West Nile region.
The 6.6 MW plant, located in Zombo District, is expected to transform lives by providing reliable and affordable electricity to thousands of households and businesses.
Presiding over the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, the Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, lauded the completion of the project as “a proud moment” for Uganda, calling it a critical step in addressing the long-standing energy supply challenges in West Nilesaid. “For so long, there had been concerns about the
A Milestone for Energy Access and Economic Transformation
Nyagak III, which is developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement, cost approximately USD 20 million, co-financed by the Government of Uganda and Afrexim Bank.
The project is implemented through Genmax Nyagak Ltd, a Special Purpose Vehicle formed by Uganda Electricity Generation Company Limited (UEGCL), Hydromax Limited, and DOTT Services Ltd.
Minister Nankabirwa emphasized the project’s far-reaching benefits, including its low tariff rate among Uganda’s hydropower plants, making it more accessible for local communities and businesses.
“This plant supports industrial growth, improves livelihoods, and drives our national economic development agenda,” she added.
She further recognized the collaborative effort that brought the project to life, thanking engineers, contractors, government ministries, and communities for their resilience, especially during tough times such as the withdrawal of initial funders, the COVID-19 pandemic, and complex geological challenges.
Job Creation, Skills Transfer, and Rural Upliftment
Beyond electricity generation, Nyagak III is credited for stimulating local economies during its construction.
“Nyagak III is more than a power plant it is a socio-economic engine,” said Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, Minister of State for Mineral Development.
As a native of the West Nile region, her remarks were particularly heartfelt, highlighting how the plant signifies intentional government investment in the region’s future.
“The commissioning of this 6.6MW hydropower plant is a testimony that the government has heard our voices, recognized our potential, and is investing in our future,” she noted.
She urged local youth to take advantage of the opportunity by embracing skills training in engineering, mining, and ICT to become active participants in Uganda’s development. “This project is not just a ribbon-cutting; it is a call to rise, skill up, and take your rightful place in Uganda’s transformation.”
A Beacon for Clean Energy and Industrialization
The plant’s strategic significance extends beyond energy supply. It is expected to play a crucial role in the government’s broader goals of industrialization, mineral value addition, and sustainable development.
According to Minister Nankabirwa, the power generated will encourage new investment in manufacturing and mineral processing facilities across West Nile.
“With stable and reliable power supply, we are unlocking opportunities for local businesses, fostering regional trade, and contributing to Uganda’s industrialization agenda,” she said.
She also reiterated the project’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7, which advocates for access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy for all.
Hon. Nyamutoro echoed the same sentiment, stating, “Hydropower is only one part of the resource story of this region.
Beneath the soils of Zombo, Nebbi, Pakwach, Moyo and Arua lie valuable minerals. Our task now is to ensure they are harnessed sustainably and transparently for community benefit.”
A Model for Future Public-Private Energy Projects
Both ministers highlighted the importance of the PPP model in delivering the project, praising private sector partners for their commitment and professionalism.
The main contractors and partners included DOTT Services Ltd, responsible for civil, hydro-mechanical and transmission line works; Flovel Energy Pvt. Ltd (India) for electro-mechanical works; Shree Ganesh Industries (India) for hydro-mechanical equipment; the Owner’s Engineer, TATA Consulting Engineers (India); and the Independent Engineer, JV INTEC – GOPA International Consultants GmbH.
“This success shows what is possible when government, private sector, and local communities work together,” said Nyamutoro. “Nyagak III must now become a model for how Uganda rolls out future clean energy infrastructure.”
Addressing Unmet Community Needs
While celebrating the project’s success, Minister Nankabirwa acknowledged that some Community Development Action Plan (CDAP) initiatives such as support to Uruku Primary School and Otheko HC II remained unimplemented due to funding constraints.
She assured the community that the Ministry of Energy continues to engage the Ministry of Finance to ensure these are delivered through the relevant ministries of education and health.
Lighting a Path to the Future
As the commissioning ceremony drew to a close, the atmosphere was filled with optimism and unity.
The ministers commended the people of Zombo and West Nile for their patience, cooperation, and resilience throughout the project implementation.
“Today, we are not just turning on lights,” concluded Minister Nyamutoro. “We are illuminating hope, dignity, and transformation across West Nile and beyond.
May this project be a beacon of more to come not just in power, but in minerals, industry, and opportunity for every Ugandan.”
The Nyagak III Hydropower Project is now operational and set to power not only homes and businesses but a broader vision of inclusive growth, regional empowerment, and national transformation.
