By Francis Nizeyimana
Only 1,300 homes have applied to benefit from the Government free electricity connection program, also known as Yaka Mangu.
Under this initiative, the Government of Uganda covers the connection fees for customers seeking electricity access.
In January this year, government launched a free electricity connection program, specifically targeting individuals residing near electricity poles or those in need of a single pole connection.
Joseph Nsabimana, in charge of new connections at UMEME-Kisoro branch, disclosed that their aim is to connect 25,000 households in Kisoro within a one-year period.
Nsabimana told www.vomuhabura.com that out of the 1,300 applicants who applied since January, 450 have already been successfully connected.
He however says that others are yet to fulfill certain requirements, such as wiring their houses by a certified wireman.
He explained that applicants are only required to pay an inspection fee of 41,300 shillings and a connection fee of 15,000 shillings.
“Our target as UMEME is to connect 65,000 customers this year. Out of this, Kisoro has a target of 25,000 customers to get connected. These people should have wired houses and with a certificate. They should be within a distance of one pole or near a pole,” said Nsabimana.
He added that, “a customer comes with 60,000 Shillings for a pole of just the wire and bank charges. Bring this money, your National ID and the wiring certificate to our UMEME office to benefit.”
Nsabimana said that those residing far from electricity poles could collaborate with their neighbours nearer to the pole to share the connection costs, thereby reducing individual financial burdens.
“If you’re not within a distance of a pole or one pole, you can have an understanding with your neighbours who also need electricity and share the costs to buy poles. This will help address the financial cost,” Nsabimana advised.
In an effort to facilitate the connection process, Joseph Nsabimana highlighted the importance of community cooperation and adherence to the stipulated requirements for a successful electricity connection.
He said that many people are reluctant to apply for electricity under this government program because many people are either far from the poles or lack information about the initiative.
This free connection program is being funded by the World Bank and African development Bank through the government of Uganda.
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