The Renewable Energy Conference 2024 & Expo (REC24 & EXPO), hosted by the National Renewable Energy Platform (NREP), successfully concluded from October 31st to November 2nd, 2024, at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala. As the grand finale of Uganda’s 20th Energy and Minerals Week, organized by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), this event underscored the nation’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions for sustainable development.

Under the theme “Transforming Livelihoods Through Clean Energy Access,” the conference attracted stakeholders from over 20 countries, including Uganda, Kenya, the United Kingdom, Rwanda, Somalia, Burundi, Sri Lanka, Cameroon, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Djibouti, China, and the United States. Delegates represented a wide range of sectors:

• Central and local government agencies,
• Development partners,
• Foreign missions,
• Investors,
• Religious and cultural institutions,
• Civil society organizations,
• Financial institutions,
• Private sector players,
• Academic and research institutions, and
• Energy end-users.

With 1,349 participants registered through the NREP platform and an average of 1,480 daily attendees, the event emerged as a vibrant forum for knowledge sharing, innovation, and collaboration, featuring 88 thematic sessions conducted by 528 facilitators, with 157 exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions, and an encouraging 58% female representation, reflecting the growing gender inclusivity in the energy sector.

The sessions revolved around ten thematic pillars integral to Uganda’s renewable energy agenda:

1. Clean Cooking – Promoting sustainable cooking technologies.
2. Partnerships – Fostering collaboration among key stakeholders.
3. Policy and Regulation – Streamlining policies for energy transition.
4. Women and Youth – Empowering underrepresented groups in energy initiatives.
5. Social Discourses – Discussing societal impacts of energy access.
6. Productive Use of Energy – Driving economic activities through energy solutions.
7. Finance and Business – Exploring funding and investment opportunities.
8. Science, Research, and Data Management – Advancing innovation and evidence-based decision-making.
9. Frontier Technologies – Showcasing cutting-edge advancements in renewable energy.

The REC24 Expo provided a platform for diverse organizations to highlight their contributions to Uganda’s renewable energy sector. Exhibitors included:

• Clean cooking companies,
• Solar energy providers,
• Civil society organizations,
• Academic and research institutions,
• Government ministries, departments, and agencies,
• Financial institutions,
• Development partners, and
• Business consultancies.

These exhibits demonstrated Uganda’s progress in adopting innovative, sustainable, and inclusive energy solutions.

Insights from the Opening Ceremony

The conference was inaugurated by Hon. Can. Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development. In her speech, she stressed the importance of strategic partnerships to achieve universal clean energy access. The Minister also outlined several government initiatives:

• Electricity reforms to improve access and affordability.
• Implementation of the Minerals and Mining Act, 2022.
• Adoption of the biofuels blending program to promote sustainable fuel use.
• Development of clean cooking initiatives, including widespread LPG adoption.
• Integration of renewable energy across all economic sectors, as envisioned in Uganda’s Energy Transition Plan, 2023.

Prominent leaders who graced the event included:

• Hon. Phiona Nyamutoro, Minister of State for Minerals.
• H.E. Jan Sadek, Head of the European Union Delegation.
• H.E. Lisa Chesney, British High Commissioner to Uganda.
• H.E. Xavier Sticker, French Ambassador to Uganda.
• Ms. Grace Tusiime, Undersecretary, MEMD.
• Ms. Mariam Nampeera Mbowa, Deputy Managing Director, TotalEnergies Uganda.
• Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Minister for East African Community Affairs.
• Hon. Daudi Migereko, Chairperson, National Biofuels Committee of Uganda.

These dignitaries reinforced their commitment to fostering collaboration and scaling up renewable energy initiatives in Uganda and beyond.

Looking Ahead: REC24’s Legacy

The Renewable Energy Conference 2024 & Expo served as a pivotal platform for advancing Uganda’s renewable energy ambitions. By addressing critical themes, facilitating high-level discussions, and showcasing innovative technologies, REC24 left a lasting impact on stakeholders and participants. It underscored the importance of clean energy in transforming livelihoods and fostering sustainable economic growth.

Conclusion

As Uganda moves toward achieving universal clean energy access, events like REC24 & EXPO play a crucial role in bringing together stakeholders, sharing knowledge, and driving innovation. With unwavering commitment from the government, private sector, and international partners, the future of renewable energy in Uganda looks brighter than ever.

NOTE:

Look forward to the comprehensive Renewable Energy Conference 2024 and EXPO (REC24 & EXPO) report coming out soon.