Uganda Parliament addresses Karuma Dam weed issue and charcoal ban

Uganda's Parliament is addressing two significant energy-related challenges involving infrastructure maintenance and trade regulations.

In the Natural Resources Committee, Chairman Dan Kimosho reported that the Karuma Dam, a 600-megawatt facility, faces potential generation constraints due to a severe water weed infestation. The committee estimated that approximately $40 million (Shs160 billion) will be required to eradicate the weed, which has roots extending to the riverbed. Committee members expressed reluctance to approve this funding, alleging that officials failed to act proactively to mitigate the issue, potentially due to negligence or intent to profit from future mitigation costs.

Separately, Speaker of Parliament Jacob Markson Oboth has ordered a suspension of the enforcement of a charcoal trade ban in West Nile, northern Uganda, Karamoja, and the Teso sub-region. The ban, stemming from a 2023 Presidential Executive Order, was halted pending a formal statement from the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development regarding the availability and affordability of alternative energy sources. Lawmakers raised concerns over public alarm and the lack of accessible alternatives, noting that a significant majority of Ugandans rely on charcoal and firewood for energy.