Residents of Nyagatare District have called upon authorities to address the issue of recurrent power outages that are affecting their households and businesses.

Nyagatare, Rwanda’s largest and most populous district, has been praised for expanding electricity distribution to over 70 per cent of its residents. However, despite the good coverage, outages have become a problem.

ALSO READ: Nyagatare-tops-in-performances-contracts

Some individuals who spoke to The New Times said the problem has been ongoing for a substantial period, posing challenges to many businesses that rely on electricity to operate.

The New Times understands that Nyagatare’s power is sourced from Gatsibo and Gicumbi districts, but the process of transmitting it involves long lines which are sometimes prone to glitches that lead to disruptions in the supply.

Edith Musanabera, a milk vendor in Nyagatare District, relies on refrigeration for her business. She lamented the detrimental impact of frequent power outages on her perishable products, resulting in financial losses.

"A business like mine depends on refrigeration. However, power outages disrupt my service delivery, causing the milk to spoil. Recently, I incurred losses due to prolonged outages. Dealing with the uncertainty of electricity supply is frustrating. I hope the government takes swift action to address this pressing issue,” she said.

ALSO READ: Access-to-electricity-changing-lives-in-nyagatare-district

The unreliable power supply has compelled some business owners to seek alternative solutions to sustain their operations. Many have invested in backup generators, citing them as costly but necessary expenses.

"One of my customers’ flat screens was damaged during a power outage. I had to refund the customer and invest in a generator. Running on diesel, it incurs additional expenses. Improving power supply would significantly enhance the business environment,” said Theoneste Gasongo, an electronic repair shop owner in Nyagatare District.

The city’s power is primarily generated from the Gabiro substation, which energises three major feeders; Nyagatare, Kiziguro, and Ngarama. However, given the city’s growth and increasing business activities, residents emphasise the urgent need for a more reliable power supply.

In response to the community’s concerns, the Mayor of Nyagatare District, Stephen Gasana, urged patience while assuring residents that measures are being taken to resolve the issue effectively.

"We are committed to finding a lasting solution to the electricity supply problem. The construction of a new substation in Karangazi sector, Mbale cell, is underway, which will not only power our industrial zone, but also enhance overall electricity supply in the district,” Gasana reassured.