On her part, the UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Nwanne Vwede Obahor, highlighted the role of border posts as integrated operational hubs and critical gateways that can unlock Uganda’s potential for growth, prosperity, and sustainable development. “This solarization intervention offers not only immediate operational advantages but also significant long-term developmental contributions that align with Uganda’s vision for inclusive and sustainable growth, as outlined in key development frameworks,” she added.

Access to energy is not just a development priority - it is a matter of security, resilience, and dignity, and a critical enabler for sustainable development. This intervention demonstrates how sustainability and public service delivery can go hand in hand, even in hard-to-reach locations.

Through such assistance and partnerships, UNDP is “walking the talk,” showcasing a resource-efficient, accountable, and climate-resilient model for office and service delivery. This solarization of border posts builds on UNDP’s track record in supporting similar initiatives, including the solarization of health centers, markets, and shelters - particularly those responding to gender-based violence.

Call to Action

We must harness the full potential of the newly installed solar systems. With a photovoltaic (PV) capacity of 16 kWp and battery storage of 40 kWh, the system can reliably support a wide range of critical functions: providing lighting for offices; enabling seamless use of computers, printers, routers, and other essential equipment; powering refrigeration for temperature-sensitive items such as vaccines; supporting border control systems (e.g., passport and ID verification); operating surveillance and security systems; and facilitating water pumping, among others.

Importantly, this infrastructure has been designed with climate-smart financing readiness in mind. It is now essential to take the next step by facilitating enrolment into relevant green financing schemes. These can support the long-term sustainability and scalability of solar energy solutions across the respective border posts - and ideally, serve as models for future infrastructure investments.

There is opportunity for scaling as well, adaptable, resilient energy systems that not only withstand shocks - whether environmental, geopolitical, or technological - but also contribute to broader systems resilience should be integrated. By leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), emerging technologies, and innovative financing, we can build energy ecosystems that are not only sustainable and future-ready but also foundational to a more peaceful and secure world.

Voices from the field

“We are so happy, to have this solar system installed here, it has improved our lives, improved the lives of stakeholders around the border, improved the relationship with the border community and between Uganda and Rwanda.” - Rosette Barigye, Officer-in-Charge of Immigration at Cyanika Border.

“I thank UNDP for this gift of the solar installation. There is business continuity without any interruption, the security in the areas we operate, and surroundings are also safe. Previously there has been a high risk of letting in unwanted persons through the border once they do not go through the system, but with this solar system in place, I can assure all Ugandans that only individuals with required documentation will be let in the country. With or without on grid power.” - Gilbert Kabuzire, Principal Immigration Officer.

“As a border tour guide, this solar system is going to make my work easy and safer, I will comfortably support tourists, day and night, on both sides of the border without any challenge” - Anita Muharo, a border tour guide.