On February 7th, 2024, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. General Hajji Abubaker Jeje Odongo, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Electricity Regulatory Authority, Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako officially signed the Country Hosting Agreement for the Independent Regulatory Board (IRB) of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP).

This agreement comes after the Cabinet’s approval on May 8th, 2023, to establish the Secretariat of the IRB in Kampala.

The Country Host Agreement signifies the Government’s dedication to hosting the IRB Secretariat in Kampala and granting it diplomatic status and tax exemption.

During the signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kampala, Eng. Waako emphasized that hosting the IRB Secretariat brings numerous benefits to Uganda.

It presents an opportunity for Uganda to contribute to the development of a robust Regional Electricity market, ensuring a secure supply, enhancing sector efficiencies, improving reliability, and stimulating economic growth, “Eng. Waako said.

Eng. Waako also highlighted that hosting the IRB will enhance Uganda’s reputation, provide training and employment opportunities for Ugandans, and boost economic activity not only in the country but also in the entire region.

Hon. General Hajji Abubaker Jeje Odongo thanked the Technical Teams for spearheading the hosting of the IRB Secretariat. He emphasized the Government’s commitment to ensure the country’s development by investing in the necessary Energy infrastructure.

The East Africa Power Pool (EAPP) as a specialized institution of COMESA was created in 2006 by the Eleventh Summit of the Heads of State. It has grown to over 13 (Thirteen) member countries that signed the Inter-Governmental Memorandum of Understanding (IGMOU). 

The IRB is mandated to provide fair and effective regulatory services to facilitate the development and efficient operation of the regional Electricity market in Eastern Africa and to ensure a conducive environment for Regional infrastructure investments.