Residents affected by the construction of the Bujagali Hydropower Plant in Jinja City have lauded Bujagali Energy Limited (BEL) for fulfilling the promises made in the memorandum of understanding signed before the project’s commissioning.
Communities in Budondo, Ivunumber, Namizi, and Bujagali villages expressed gratitude for BEL’s continued support in improving their livelihoods through education, clean water, and health services.
Mr Haruna Kapampa, the LC1 Chairman of Bujagali Village said children of people affected by the project have been educated as part of the company’s CSR.
Mr Kapampa said, besides providing vocational skill training for the children, the communities have been provided with safe water sources, health services and supply of electricity to the people.
He made the remarks during the commissioning of 36 residents who completed a tailoring course at Nile Vocational Institute, fully funded by BEL
Ms Jesica Akiise, one of the tailoring graduates, said the skills she learned will enable her to earn a living without relying on others’ support.
‘I can now make money because I have the skills. People will bring clothes for sewing, and I’ll be able to support my family,’ she said.
Mr Alaister McDougall, BEL General Manager, explained that the company’s education programs aim to empower both students and unskilled residents in the affected communities.
‘We have been offering scholarships to bright students, especially in science fields, so they can later be employed at the power plant. To balance opportunities, we also fund vocational training for residents who did not attain higher education,’ he said.
He added that this initiative forms part of BEL’s corporate social responsibility, ensuring that community members benefit directly from the project.
Jinja City Inspector of Schools, Mr Steven Kagoda, commended BEL for complementing government efforts in expanding access to education.
‘When partners like BEL support our education initiatives, the government’s workload is eased. I encourage BEL to extend this program to other communities because the demand is high,’ he said.