Uganda's commitment to sustainable energy development was once again evident during the recently held 19th Energy and Minerals Week, which took place from November 13 to 18, 2023. Themed "Energy and Minerals for Sustainable Growth," the event showcased a wide range of initiatives and technologies aimed at promoting a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the country.
This annual event serves as a platform to highlight Uganda's steadfast commitment to sustainable energy development. Organized by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development in collaboration with esteemed partners such as the German Government, GIZ, SNV, UNREEEA, and NREP, the week featured a series of events aimed at engaging the public and fostering sector-specific discussions.
The comprehensive series of events commenced at Akamwesi Mall in Kyebando, featuring a public exhibition and sector-specific engagements. Distinguished conferences like the Energy Efficiency and E-Mobility Conference, Power Forum, Renewable Energy Conference, and Expo 2023 were held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, showcasing Uganda's strides in the energy and minerals sector.
Hon. Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, launched the event, emphasizing initiatives in the clean energy sector. She highlighted efforts promoting efficient cooking appliances, setting Minimum Performance Standards for various technologies, and encouraging energy efficiency improvements for industrialists. The Minister urged the public to adopt energy-efficient practices in homes and businesses, sharing valuable tips for minimizing energy costs.
German Ambassador H.E Matthias Schauer underscored the enduring partnership between Germany and Uganda, emphasizing their commitment to a just energy transition. He pledged Germany's support in helping Uganda achieve its climate change adaptation and mitigation goals, stressing the urgency of investing in sustainable, affordable, and accessible energy systems.
At the end of the event, participants were honored with certificates of participation. Eng. David Birimumaso, the Principal Energy Officer at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), had the distinct privilege of presenting these certificates, acknowledging and commending the contributions of the participants.
The public exhibition featured a diverse array of participants, encompassing advocates for energy efficiency appliances, solar technologies, clean cookstove promoters and manufacturers, along with inventors and proponents of clean fuel alternatives such as briquettes and LPG.
Notable companies in attendance included Simbaland Home Appliances, UP Energy, Solar Nation, Potential Energy, Energy Uganda Foundation (EUF), ECO Smart from Lira, Wes Gas, Best of Waste (BOW), SSESA Stoves, MASUPA, Envirobase, Ugastove, Nest Electrical Contractors Association, Ecostove, and Central Engineering Workshop, among others
In an exclusive interview with Green Lens Uganda, several exhibitors shared their perspectives on the exhibition. While some expressed satisfaction with the event, cookstove promoters, in particular, voiced disappointment, citing challenges like low public turnout and minimal sales. They attributed these setbacks to the venue's inaccessibility and insufficient public awareness. Recommending a more central location, like marketplaces or high-foot-traffic areas, exhibitors believed it would enhance the event's success and engagement with a broader audience.
However, other exhibitors, such as solar promoters and sellers of modern home energy-efficient appliances, praised the event and reported successful sales. In response to these concerns, Green Lens Uganda interviewed exhibitors and offered valuable insights. Some exhibitors recommended changing the venue to busier locations like marketplaces, emphasizing the success of previous exhibitions at Railway and KCCA grounds. They also suggested more extensive publicity through television and radio programs and advertisements, as well as public drives to enhance awareness.
Green Lens Uganda emphasizes the critical importance of identifying a neutral ground that accommodates all exhibitors, suggesting marketplaces as potential venues for ongoing and future events. From an expert perspective in event management, Green Lens Uganda underscores the necessity for comprehensive media coverage and strategic public drives to ensure maximum public awareness and attendance.
In our commitment to overcoming challenges in promoting energy-efficient technologies, Green Lens Uganda actively documents events related to environmental conservation, clean energy, and climate action. This documentation acts as a driving force, inspiring sustainable development and contributing to the ongoing shift toward a cleaner energy future. Green Lens Uganda remains dedicated to its mission of addressing barriers due to limited media coverage in the sector, working diligently to encourage positive change in the promotion of clean energy technologies and environmental conservation.
Comments