Uganda and South Sudan Power Interconnection Project Records Progress Following Kampala Engagements

Kampala, Uganda — Regional efforts to advance the South Sudan–Uganda Power Interconnection Project (SUPIP) received renewed momentum this week following high-level technical engagements between the Nile Equatorial Lakes Subsidiary Action Program Coordination Unit (NELSAP-CU), Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), and Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD).

The meetings reviewed the current implementation progress of the regional 400kV power interconnection project, including coordination on technical activities, project execution arrangements, among others aimed at supporting smoother implementation.

The engagements reflected continued collaboration among the implementing institutions as the project moves further into implementation.

The South Sudan–Uganda Power Interconnection Project is a strategic regional energy infrastructure initiative aimed at connecting the electricity grids of Uganda and South Sudan through a 400kV high-voltage transmission line linking Olwiyo in Uganda to Juba in South Sudan. The project includes the construction of transmission lines, substations, and associated infrastructure to facilitate cross-border electricity trade and improve the reliability and stability of power supply in the region. Once operational, the interconnection is expected to support increased access to affordable electricity, reduce dependency on expensive thermal generation, strengthen regional power integration under the Eastern Africa Power Pool framework, and stimulate economic and social development in both countries.

Speaking during the meeting, Eng. Edward Baleke reaffirmed the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development’s commitment to supporting timely implementation of the project.

“The Ministry remains committed to fast tracking this project to ensure it delivers on its intended purpose. We shall continue to provide all the necessary support required at Ministry level to facilitate effective implementation,” he said.

Representing the Regional Coordinator of NELSAP-CU, Eng. Jacob Manyoun Deng, Project Manager for Power at NELSAP-CU, assured stakeholders of NELSAP’s continued commitment to coordinated project delivery and regional cooperation.

“NELSAP-CU remains fully committed to working closely with the Partner States, utilities, and stakeholders to ensure the project progresses smoothly and as planned,” he noted.

Once completed, the South Sudan–Uganda Power Interconnection Project is expected to strengthen regional power trade, improve electricity reliability, and enhance energy access and regional integration between the two countries.