Kampala, Uganda | Otuke East MP Julius Acon Bua has called for urgent action to complete delayed electricity connections in Otuke District, saying infrastructure installed years ago has yet to deliver the intended benefits to residents.
Speaking during a parliamentary sitting on Wednesday, Acon said Otuke was among the early beneficiaries of the rural electrification programme following a 2019 government directive.
He said several electricity poles erected since 2019 remain without connected wires, leaving communities unable to access power despite the infrastructure already being in place.
According to Acon, the delays are not only denying households electricity but are also limiting opportunities for young people who could use power to establish businesses such as welding and carpentry.
He also linked the lack of reliable electricity to water challenges in the district, saying power could be used to operate water pumps and improve access to water.
Acon further warned that some of the installed poles are being damaged by wildfires, increasing the risk of losing infrastructure before it is put to use.
He said repeated appeals over the years had not resolved the matter and urged the Energy Ministry to intervene and ensure the people of Otuke benefit from the electricity infrastructure already installed in the district.