REC2024:Minister Nankabirwa Calls for multi-stakeholder approach for renewable energy transition

Uganda’s Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa,opened the Renewable Energy Conference 2024 (REC2024) , emphasizing the critical link between energy and development ,shared targets and visions of common networks of RECs, CAADP Pillar 4 institutions and continental alliances in driving a just and equitable Energy transition.

The conference, themed “Transforming Livelihoods Through Clean Energy Access,” brings together stakeholders to explore innovative solutions for Uganda’s energy sector.

The Renewable Energy Conference started from the 31st October and ran to the 2nd of November at the Munyonyo Commonwealth Resort in Kampala, Uganda. The conference brings together experts, innovators, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss and advance the clean energy agenda.

“As we gather here today, I am reminded of the immense potential that renewable energy holds for our country,” Minister Nankabirwa stated.

The dynamic program features several prominent activities, Exhibition . Companies across the energy, minerals, and petroleum sectors are  showcasing their latest products and technologies to the public in renewable energy.

Nankabirwa has emphasized the urgent need to address the environmental toll associated with high firewood and other cooking means.

“Transforming livelihoods through clean energy access is not just a slogan, but a reality we must achieve to ensure a sustainable future for our people’’, she added.

The conference aims to promote the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydro power, to reduce Uganda’s reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change.

With over 140 million people in the greater Horn of Africa lacking access to electricity, events like REC2024 are crucial for driving progress.

“Renewable energy is not just a moral imperative, but an economic one,” Minister Nankabirwa added. “By harnessing our natural resources, we can create jobs, stimulate growth, and improve the quality of life for our citizens.”

Experts in various sessions discussed topics including; The role of Diplomatic Missions in driving energy diplomacy agenda; brought  together Teens from different schools to discuss and debate renewable energy, energy transition and climate change, and suggest options to advance their awareness, advocacy, and adoption; highlighted best industry practices including new technologies and discuss policy enablers to encourage the industry’s denationalization; solutions, the carbon savings of transport electrification, and the policy and financing instruments required to make it happen; highlighted several new initiatives working to build the skills and ecosystems required by the energy practitioners of the future among others.

Other sessions explored how to build energy markets that reach the bottom of the pyramid with life changing energy products and services, drawing from first-hand experiences in humanitarian and other last-mile contexts. Panelist led by SNV, Makerere University College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) and Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) shared lessons from the Inclusive Markets for Energy Efficiency in Uganda (IMEU) initiative, on sustainable, inclusive markets for appropriate energy efficient (EE) products and services for households, businesses, and institutions in agriculture and the built environment, to enhance livelihoods and increase the resilience and competitiveness of businesses in Uganda

The REC24 & Expo will feature workshops and exhibitions designed to showcase innovative products and services geared towards renewable energy solutions.

Hon. Phiona Nyamutooro, the Minister of State for Energy and Mineral Development (Minerals) said the conference provides a unique networking opportunity for stakeholders to discuss partnerships and investment opportunities that can help catalyze Uganda’s transition to sustainable energy.

Nearly 80% of people in Sub-Saharan Africa still rely on polluting fuels such as biomass for cooking, despite the availability of cleaner, safer, and more efficient alternatives like bioethanol, and electric cooking. We are committed to advancing clean cooking technologies through strong policy frameworks and ambitious technical standards that improve environmental sustainability, public health, and energy efficiency.