As Busoga prepares to host the 10th Olwekobaano Energy Expo 2025, scheduled for 12th–15th December at the Green Belt in Kaliro and the Kaliro Country Resort, one theme stands out clearly—strategic partnerships are powering the region’s shift toward clean, reliable, and community-centred energy solutions.
From solar innovators to educational institutions, development agencies, and district authorities, the network behind the expo reflects a united drive to transform Busoga’s energy landscape.
Dr. Charles Mbalyohere, President of Busoga Yaiffe, the organisers of the expo, said the collaboration among local and international partners is the foundation of the event’s success and the region’s long-term resilience.
“Energy transformation cannot be achieved by one actor alone. What we see at the Olwekobaano Expo is a community of partners—each contributing expertise, technology, and resources. Together, we are accelerating Busoga’s move toward clean and affordable energy for every household,” Dr. Mbalyohere explained.
The 10th Olwekobaano Energy Expo 2025 has attracted partners like the Kaliro District Local Government, World Vision, Centenary Bank, the Office of the Senior Presidential Advisor on Busoga/Poverty Alleviation, Kaliro Country Resort, Makerere University, Obwazibondo Bwa Bulamogi, the Uganda Solar Energy Association, Open University, and SENDEA, among others.
Energy Industry Leaders Amplify Impact
Partners such as the Uganda Solar Energy Association (USEA) continue to play a critical role in pushing renewable solutions deeper into rural communities. A USEA official underscored the importance of the expo as a platform for meaningful engagement.
“The Olwekobaano Expo allows us to interact directly with end-users and build awareness about safe, quality, and affordable solar technologies. Strategic partnerships like these are essential to scaling up renewable energy access across the country,” the official noted.
SENDEA, a network supporting energy enterprises across Africa, emphasized that collaboration is the engine of innovation.
“By working with Busoga Yaiffe and other partners, we amplify the reach of clean energy entrepreneurs and make technologies more accessible to rural communities. This expo is a practical example of partnership in action,” a SENDEA representative said.
Education Institutions Strengthening Skills and Energy Literacy
The National Teachers College (NTC) Kaliro, one of the expo’s strategic partners, highlighted the importance of integrating energy education into local institutions.
“As a training institution, we see the need to equip young people with skills in renewable energy, climate resilience, and innovation. Our partnership with the expo bridges academic learning with real-world solutions,” an NTC Kaliro official said.
The Open University, which promotes global learning and research, echoed this value. “We support the Olwekobaano Expo because it strengthens knowledge exchange between local communities and global actors. Energy transition depends on learning, innovation, and shared commitment,” a representative from The Open University remarked.
World Vision, a long-standing community development partner, expressed optimism about the role of strategic alliances in improving welfare.
“Access to clean energy improves education, health, and household income. Our collaboration with the expo helps ensure that the most vulnerable communities benefit from technologies that change lives,” a World Vision official said.
District Leadership Welcomes the Power of Partnerships
Kiduma Rogers, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kaliro District, the host district for this year’s expo, applauded the strength of the partnerships driving the event.
“Kaliro is honored to host an expo that brings together such a diverse team of partners. These collaborations are the reason Busoga is steadily advancing in clean energy adoption. This is the future we want for our people,” the ARDC said.
“Busoga Yaiffe and the Olwekobaano Expo & Conference continue to advance good farming practices and drive development across Busoga. This expo is transforming mindsets and equipping our communities with the skills needed for proper and productive land use. I encourage everyone attending to put into practice what they see and learn so we can improve our household incomes and strengthen our region.” Kiduma said.
Exhibitors Showcase Innovation Born of Collaboration
Exhibitors, ranging from solar irrigation providers to clean cooking innovators and electric mobility startups, are benefiting directly from the collaborative environment created by the expo.
A solar irrigation exhibitor noted that working alongside partners like USEA and SENDEA helps them reach farmers who need their technologies the most. The expo opens doors that would otherwise be unreachable, he said.
A clean cooking exhibitor added, “Partnerships make it possible for small innovators like us to scale. At the expo, we meet communities, financiers, and policymakers all in one place. That is priceless.”
A Region United for a Clean Energy Future
With each edition, the Olwekobaano Energy Expo demonstrates that Busoga’s energy transition is not driven by isolated efforts but by a powerful ecosystem of strategic partnerships.
From grassroots innovators to global institutions, every partner contributes a vital piece to the region’s clean energy puzzle.
As Dr. Mbalyohere summarised: “Partnerships are the fuel of progress. When we join hands, Busoga moves forward—stronger, cleaner, and more empowered.”
The 2025 Expo is set to showcase not just technologies but the collaborative spirit shaping a sustainable future for the region.
