environment 13 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Church Alerts: High Renewable Energy Costs Risk Excluding Uganda's Farmers
Kasana-Luweero Bishop Lawrence Mukasa has warned that steep prices and poor access to renewable energy tech could sideline vulnerable farmers, especially women, amid worsening climate impacts. Government is ramping up climate finance efforts while the Church pushes community-driven solutions like solar pumps. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/church-warns-high-costs-threaten-renewable-energy-uptake-among-farmers-5422492
Kasana-Luweero Bishop Lawrence Mukasa voiced alarms over the prohibitive costs and limited availability of renewable energy technologies during a climate dialogue in Luweero District on April 11, 2026, organized by Caritas Kasana Luweero Diocese.
He stressed that while these technologies promise to cut farming expenses and boost earnings, barriers like high equipment prices prevent many, particularly women farmers, from benefiting.
In Uganda’s cattle corridor, including greater Luweero, climate effects are hitting hard, prompting some farmers to adopt solar irrigation. Nakaseke farmer Robert Mayengo shared how switching from diesel generators to solar pumps slashed his water pumping costs dramatically.
Experts point to affordability issues, maintenance skill gaps, and low awareness as key hurdles. Dr. Edward Ssengonzi Damulira from the Ministry of Finance noted Uganda’s mobilization of over $540 million in climate funds, supported by a dedicated Climate Finance Unit and budget tagging for local access.
Brian Isabirye highlighted the Church’s outreach role, with Caritas initiatives distributing solar pumps, firewood alternatives like briquettes, and regenerative agriculture in Luweero, Nakasongola, and Nakaseke. Hillary Muhezangango urged shifting from unsustainable wood fuel to affordable renewables.
Agriculture, employing 70% of Ugandans, faces acute climate risks, underscoring the need for inclusive energy solutions.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)