Much of Uganda is still struggling with high levels of poverty, and access to energy, electricity, and clean water is a real struggle for many. The infrastructure is severely lacking in many of the villages. Hydroelectricity is the main source of energy, but contributes only 1.4% to the national energy (*Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Strategic Investment Plan 2014/15 – 2018/19). 93% of rural households without access to electricity use traditional lighting technologies such as candles or kerosene lamps. Not only is electricity a problem, but in most institutions like schools and health facilities are using the local and wasteful traditional three stone cooking method that is hazardous to the environment and cooks.

In Uganda, national safe water coverage is estimated at 42% in rural areas (DWD 2011). But the actual water coverage levels are considered much lower given the hypothetical statistical procedures of deriving the coverage and the fact that most dysfunctional water sources are not accounted for (Carter et al. 1999). This inevitably leads to inferior public services, contributing to an ongoing cycle of poverty.

By participating in environment projects, you will be promoting the local communities’ access to affordable, reliable, renewable energy technologies. You will support your communities of placement to conserve their surroundings by creating awareness, increasing knowledge and promoting the utilization of the environmentally friendly solar and renewable energy. You will learn about the challenges of access to affordable, reliable and renewable energy technologies in Uganda; contribute to local communities’ capacity to conserve their surroundings using sustainable development approaches.