# Uganda energy infrastructure and charcoal policy issues > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/uganda-energy-infrastructure-and-charcoal-policy-issues > Updated: 2026-10-18T11:38:10.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 2. Uganda’s Parliament is addressing critical energy infrastructure and policy challenges. The Natural Resources Committee reported that the 600-megawatt Karuma Dam faces potential generation constraints due to a severe water weed infestation. Eradicating the weed is estimated to cost approximately $40 million, though lawmakers expressed reluctance to approve the funds, citing potential negligence by officials. Simultaneously, Parliament has suspended the enforcement of a charcoal trade ban originally established by a 2023 Presidential Executive Order. The suspension follows public outcry and concerns regarding energy security, as a significant portion of the population relies on charcoal and firewood. Statistics indicate that 73 percent of Ugandans rely on firewood and 21 percent depend on charcoal, with urban reliance in Kampala exceeding 82 percent. The government is now required to provide a formal statement regarding the availability and affordability of alternative energy sources to address the dilemma between forest conservation and the socio-economic needs of the population. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-18: Uganda Parliament suspends charcoal ban amid energy concerns Uganda's Parliament has suspended a charcoal ban to address concerns over energy security and the livelihoods of millions who rely on biomass for cooking amidst a lack of affordable alternatives. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uganda-parliament-suspends-charcoal-ban-amid-energy-concerns ### 2026-10-14: Uganda Parliament addresses Karuma Dam weed issue and charcoal ban Uganda's Parliament has suspended a charcoal trade ban pending government updates on alternative energy and expressed concerns over a $40 million water weed problem threatening Karuma Dam's capacity. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/uganda-parliament-addresses-karuma-dam-weed-issue-and-charcoal-ban --- Cite as: Uganda energy infrastructure and charcoal policy issues. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/uganda-energy-infrastructure-and-charcoal-policy-issues