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How can renewable energy development trigger violent conflict in Uganda?

Renewable energy consumption and production are rising across African countries, and Uganda is no exception. Uganda relies on a mixture of sources to meet the energy needs of its population. According to the World Bank, less than half (42%) of the Ugandan population has access to electricity. As a result, most Ugandans rely on biomass to meet their daily energy needs. Electricity generation has historically been based primarily on hydropower and remains so due to its large riverine resources (including the Nile River). The government’s Renewable Energy Policy of 2007 and its 2022 Energy Policy both prioritize increasing the country’s use of renewable energy sources.

Uganda is ranked number 13 in Africa’s total installed hydropower capacity (IHA, 2022). Whereas the development of renewable energy projects brings benefits, especially for the surrounding communities and the country at large, it also causes negative effects ranging from cultural, socio-economic, and environmental aspects, particularly when the development process is poorly managed. As such, there is a need to understand the unique pathways by which renewable energy conflicts can occur and the mechanisms required to prevent and resolve them.

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