The project will be implemented under the Scaling Off-Grid Energy in Rwanda (SOGER) project.
Expected to be completed in June, the plant is being constructed at Nyankorogoma River in Mpanga Sector.
The Project Coordinator, Victor Hakuzwumuremyi said that the plant will provide 13 kilowatts and will provide access to electricity to 145 households and attract different income generating activities like haircutting saloons, grinding machines and welding workshops among others.
He said the plant will cost $85,000 (over Rwf72 million). The project was funded by Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) which will provide 70% of the total cost, Mpanga residents will provide 7%, Investor Israël Habimana 10% and the remaining 13% will come from Commercial Bank.
“Electricity services cost much in this region, they need to travel long for charging their mobile phones, so, they got an idea of making electricity from that river and we committed to partner and provide with them what they desire,” he said.
“This is a people’s project, though they will provide some monthly contribution for the plant to continue exist, but, it will cost them less than they used to,” he added.
Jonatilde Shirumuteto, a resident of Mpanga Sector said that they expect much from the electricity.
“We will engage in different income generating activities like tailoring among others. Currently, these who have solar power charge us Rwf50 for recharging our mobile phones batteries,” she said.
Kirehe District Mayor, Gérald Muzungu commended the project partners and Mpanga residents for combining efforts to make the project possible.
“This is a good example of how we can find solutions from ourselves, this model should be replicated in other sectors,” he said.
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