Historically, access to electricity marked a major difference between living in a house in town and in a rural house.That dichotomy almost always ensured that those in cities, would enjoy the pleasures of life that come with having electricity – as they prospered, while their fellow rural citizens were almost assured of slow development.This has been the traditional African setting. Today, in Rwanda the ambition for rural electrification, has been further propelled by Electrogaz in partnership with STEG international services, who moved through Nyagatare district, linking up one rural house after another with electricity.More than 4,000 houses have been lit up in less than two months.The news comes as a tangible sign that the target of having 35 percent of the population powered up by 2020 is no longer a dream but a reality on course.With only 6 percent of the population currently accessing electricity, the government’s target of increasing access to electricity for 16 percent of the population by 2012 can hardly be doubted following the formidable progress in Nyagatare.
Historically, access to electricity marked a major difference between living in a house in town and in a rural house.
That dichotomy almost always ensured that those in cities, would enjoy the pleasures of life that come with having electricity – as they prospered, while their fellow rural citizens were almost assured of slow development.
This has been the traditional African setting. Today, in Rwanda the ambition for rural electrification, has been further propelled by Electrogaz in partnership with STEG international services, who moved through Nyagatare district, linking up one rural house after another with electricity.
More than 4,000 houses have been lit up in less than two months.
The news comes as a tangible sign that the target of having 35 percent of the population powered up by 2020 is no longer a dream but a reality on course.
With only 6 percent of the population currently accessing electricity, the government’s target of increasing access to electricity for 16 percent of the population by 2012 can hardly be doubted following the formidable progress in Nyagatare.
Electricity will transform rural lives forever. Electricity brings power for lights to work, read, and sew at night; power for appliances like refrigerators and freezers to preserve food and keep milk fresh.
Electricity brings changes that make life safer and better. Above all it means faster development and prosperity.
These changes in people’s lives will enhance Rwanda’s economic development and eventually fast track attaining the ultimate goal of turning Rwanda into to a middle-income country by 2020.
However, since the government is working tooth and nail to provide more rural homes with electricity, all that is needed from the rural residents is a little cooperation.
The cost of wiring a home is estimated at $ 100, payable in instalments over a period of one year.
Although this may seem costly to a rural farmer, there is no doubt the profit of a having a wired house in the long run will surpass a $ 100 sacrifice.
The beneficiaries should therefore fulfill their part of the bargain and pay in time.
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