Published on 20/06/2025
A 30kW solar energy system has been officially handed over to Kitebi Health Centre III in Rubaga Division, offering a significant boost to maternal health services and other essential operations at the busy public facility.
Installed under the Program on Integrated Local Financing for Sustainable Urban Development (PIFUD) with support from the European Union, the solar system is expected to ensure uninterrupted power to critical equipment such as fridges, baby warmers, lights, oxygen concentrators, and the ultrasound system.
Kitebi Health Centre III, one of eight public health facilities managed by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), handles an average of 341 deliveries per month and provides free healthcare services to the public.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Dr. Sarah Zalwango, Director of Public Health and Environment at KCCA, emphasized the importance of reliable electricity in maternal and child health.
“We have struggled with power outages and fuel costs for generators. The new solar system will address our lighting challenges and help us keep equipment connected, especially for maternity services,” Zalwango said.
“When power goes off, we risk losing vaccines and compromising care, but with this 24/7 solar power, those concerns are eased.”
Irene Nakanyike, the In-Charge at Kitebi Health Centre III, noted that the solar system has been in use since the beginning of June and has already made a tangible difference.
“A health facility must have light all the time. You cannot deliver a baby in the dark or resuscitate a newborn without power. We are deeply grateful for this support,” Nakanyike said.
Edison Masereka, Project Coordinator for PIFUD, said the installation is part of broader efforts to promote sustainable energy use across the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.
“This is one of six systems we’ve installed in public schools, markets, and health centres. While our resources were limited and we couldn’t cover the entire facility, we prioritized the maternity ward where impact is most immediate,” Masereka explained.
The solar system was installed by Bernoulli Engineering Services, represented by Andrew Kizito from the Commercial Services department.
“Solar is the way to go,” Kizito noted. “We have enabled the facility to power over 80 lights, and we’re proud to contribute to better health service delivery.”
The installation at Kitebi is part of a growing shift towards renewable energy solutions in Kampala, aligning with KCCA’s goals for climate resilience, cost efficiency, and improved public service delivery.
