Parliament Halts Charcoal Ban Pending Alternative Energy Report

Speaker of Parliament Jacob Marksons Oboth has ordered the government to pause the implementation of a ban on charcoal. This directive comes as a response to concerns raised by Members of Parliament who fear the ban could disproportionately affect low-income households and disrupt the livelihoods of those involved in the charcoal trade.

During a parliamentary session, the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, highlighted the public anxiety caused by the government’s announcement restricting charcoal use and sale. He pointed out that a significant majority of Ugandans, estimated by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics to be between 87% and 94%, rely on charcoal for cooking. Ssenyonyi argued that without readily available and affordable alternatives, the ban could lead to severe economic hardship and make it difficult for many families to prepare meals.

State Minister for Energy, Phiona Nyamutoro, had urged legislators to support the ministry’s push for alternative energy sources. However, her appeal did not quell the concerns raised by other MPs, such as Gilbert Olanya of Kilak South, who felt the ministry was misinterpreting the President’s directive.

In light of the ongoing debate and the potential socio-economic consequences, Speaker Oboth intervened. He mandated that the government must present a comprehensive report to Parliament next Wednesday. This report is expected to detail Uganda’s preparedness for a transition away from charcoal and outline the availability of affordable alternative energy options for the public before any enforcement of the ban proceeds.

https://nilepost.co.ug/news/378494/speaker-halts-charcoal-ban-until-government-explains-alternative-energy-readiness