A key support structure under the TBEA Subcounty Electrification Project is steadily taking shape in Igongo, Mbarara. The Rural Electrification Department (RuED) team, led by Eng. Wegulo Byakatonda, conducted a site inspection to assess the progress of the ongoing warehouse construction. The warehouse is set to serve as a regional logistics and storage facility for the electrification infrastructure rolled out across Uganda.
This construction is part of a larger initiative that has successfully delivered electricity to 210 subcounties across the country, with funding support from the Exim Bank of China. The Igongo warehouse is envisioned as a crucial asset in ensuring efficient post-electrification operations including equipment storage, deployment logistics, and maintenance support.
“This facility will serve as a regional hub for managing materials, quick response to connections needs, and supporting the sustainability of our rural electrification infrastructure,” said Eng. Byakatonda. “We’re impressed with the progress made so far.”
One notable highlight of the project is the gender-responsive approach to construction staffing. Among the site workers is Ms. Ainebyona Daphine, a skilled female mason who has been part of the construction team since March 2025.
Her craftsmanship has not gone unnoticed. Eng. Byakatonda was particularly impressed by the neatness and precision of her brick-laying skills, which reflect both technical excellence and the value of inclusive participation in infrastructure projects.
The presence of women like Ms. Ainebyona in traditionally male-dominated roles underscores the Ministry’s commitment to gender mainstreaming and creating opportunities for women in engineering and construction fields.
The Igongo warehouse follows the successful commissioning of a similar facility at Kakiri in Wakiso District, which is already operational. The Kakiri warehouse currently stores essential materials such as electricity meters, connection accessories, transformers, and other critical components required for both new connections and maintenance work.
This precedent provides a practical model for the Igongo facility, which is expected to offer similar functionality tailored to the needs of the western region.
Upon completion, the Igongo warehouse will include:
- Dedicated storage space for large-scale and sensitive electrical components
- Administrative office block
- Generator house
- Gate house
- Adequate space for future expansion
- A dedicated transformer for power supply
The warehouse is expected to be fully operational by the end of August 2025, positioning it as a cornerstone for regional electrification logistics in Western Uganda.
During the site inspection, it was observed that:
- Structural work is progressing steadily and aligns with the implementation schedule,
- The contractor has demonstrated strong adherence to quality and safety standards,
- Community engagement and local employment have been evident on site.
Once completed, the Igongo warehouse will not only reduce operational bottlenecks but also enhance the long-term reliability of rural electrification programs in the region, while also highlighting the benefits of gender-inclusive development.
