"What's Missing? Shading Light on Uganda's Energy Poverty," highlights the harsh realities faced by many Ugandans, particularly those in disadvantaged areas like the slums of Kikoni. Despite the global push for renewable energy, these initiatives often fail to reach the most vulnerable people, leaving them in dire energy poverty. For instance, a woman in Kikoni shared her struggle with inconsistent electricity, which not only compromised her family's safety when thieves broke into her home during a blackout but also hindered her daughters’ ability to study for their final examinations. Without proper lighting, these young women were denied a chance to prepare adequately for their exams, jeopardizing their dreams of becoming doctors and improving their family’s future. This is just one of many untold stories representing countless others living in similar conditions across Uganda.
Another case involves a maize vendor who still relies on firewood for cooking. While firewood is unsustainable and causes health and environmental concerns, charcoal remains expensive and difficult to access, especially during the rainy season. She faces constant conflict with her neighbors due to smoke pollution and struggles to sustain her business under these conditions. If she had access to cleaner and more reliable energy, her productivity and profitability would significantly improve. These examples underscore the project’s core message: millions of people in Uganda remain unable to access the basic energy they need for cooking, lighting, and running small businesses, highlighting an urgent issue that demands attention.