Uganda and South Sudan Launch Cross-Border Power Interconnection Project
Uganda and South Sudan have officially initiated a landmark cross-border electricity interconnection project. The collaborative initiative aims to drastically improve the capacity to move electricity across national borders, linking regional markets and addressing long-standing power deficits in the region.
The technical launch brought together key government officials, implementing institutions, and international development partners. Attendees aligned on vital frameworks, including financial management, procurement schedules, environmental and social safeguards, and coordination arrangements to ensure the project stays on track.
Officials clarified that this technical launch marks the foundational implementation phase rather than the full ceremonial rollout. The formal, high-profile celebration is expected to take place at a later stage once procurement and advanced preparation milestones are officially met.
Transforming South Sudan’s Energy Landscape
For South Sudan, the interconnection project promises a transformative shift away from costly and environmentally taxing fossil-fuel-based electricity generation. By tapping into a stable regional grid, the country is poised to significantly improve reliable access to electricity for households, small businesses, heavy industries, and critical public institutions.
Access to affordable power is widely viewed by economists as a catalyst for economic growth in South Sudan, enabling local enterprises to expand operations, cut overhead costs, and foster a more stable business environment.
Unlocking Export Potential for Uganda
On the other side of the border, Uganda stands to gain a lucrative and reliable regional market for its surplus domestic energy. During peak generation periods when domestic production exceeds local demand, the transmission link will allow Uganda to seamlessly export excess power.
This increased export capacity is expected to generate vital foreign revenue for the Ugandan government while solidifying the nation’s strategic participation and leadership within the regional electricity market. Furthermore, it reinforces broader cooperative efforts under the umbrella of the Eastern Africa Power Pool, encouraging greater energy trading stability across the entire region.
Next Steps and Implementation Roadmap
With all financing conditions now successfully fulfilled, attention turns swiftly to groundwork and implementation. The financial backing for the initiative is anchored by the African Development Fund for Uganda, alongside broader multi-donor arrangements involving both national governments. The South Sudan component is receiving vital co-financing support from the European Union.
Immediate priorities moving into the construction preparation phase include:
Consultant Mobilization: Bringing on board the Project Supervision and Management Consultant to oversee technical quality and timelines.
Safeguards and Compliance: Completing rigorous environmental and social safeguard requirements, notably the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP).
Route Finalization: Confirming the final transmission route alignment.
Contractor Procurement: Issuing tenders and finalizing selections for Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractors.
While Uganda and South Sudan will closely coordinate the overarching procurement and execution of the cross-border infrastructure, each sovereign government will remain directly responsible for managing its respective domestic component.
