The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) has taken a decisive leap toward realising Uganda’s ambitious clean energy goals with the official launch of the Clean Cooking Unit (CCU).
Unveiled during the high-profile Renewable Energy Conference 2025 (REC25) and Expo, held at the Kampala Serena Hotel, the CCU is designed to be the central coordinating body to accelerate universal access to clean cooking solutions by 2040.
According to Minister Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa, who officiated over the launch, this launch signifies a major step in the national energy transition, recognising that sustainable energy must encompass not just power generation, but also the fundamental need for clean, affordable cooking methods in every household.
Strategic Mission of the Clean Cooking Unit
The establishment of the CCU is a direct response to the urgent challenge of over 90% of Ugandan households relying on traditional, biomass cooking methods (firewood and charcoal), which pose health risks. The Minister revealed that the CCU’s mandate is comprehensive and focuses on the following;
Leading the National Agenda, which is to provide dedicated leadership for Uganda’s clean cooking strategy.
Enhancing collaboration to strengthen cooperation across all stakeholders: government, private sector, development partners, and civil society.
Mobilise financing to unlock the necessary capital and investment to scale up clean cooking technologies, including modern electric cooking (e-cooking), LPG, solar stoves, and advanced biomass like briquettes.
Public-Private Partnerships
Nankabirwa revealed that the CCU was established through a critical partnership, supported by the UK’s FCDO-funded project on ‘Setting Up of the Clean Cooking Unit within MEMD.’
Key technical support is provided by the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), in collaboration with the Modern Energy Cooking Services Program (MECS), the National Renewable Energy Platform (NREP), and ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability.
Thinking Beyond Generation to Livelihoods
The launch of the CCU coincided with the opening of the Renewable Energy Conference 2025 (REC25), which set a forward-thinking agenda.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony of he conference, Minister Nankabirwa emphasised the broader, transformative role of energy.
She noted that the theme, “Transforming Energy Systems for Livelihoods and Conservation,” challenges the sector to measure success not just in megawatts, but in the tangible improvement of lives and the protection of the environment.
Nankabirwa celebrated the nation’s current progress, which includes;
The commissioning of new hydro and solar projects, expansion of the national grid access, reforms that are actively lowering electricity tariffs, plus the revitalisation of Kilembe Mines.
She stressed that the collective focus at REC25 must be on sustaining momentum, scaling with speed, strengthening partnerships, promoting innovation, and supporting local manufacturing.
“Uganda welcomes the private sector, innovators and communities to co-create solutions for a just energy transition,” she stated, firmly extending an invitation for collaborative action.
Coalition for a Greener Future
The Ministry’s efforts are underscored by a strong alliance of international and domestic partners. Minister Nankabirwa extended deep gratitude to organisations, including the UK in Uganda, the European Union, GIZ Uganda, the Embassy of Sweden, TotalEnergies, FAO, Uganda Energy Credit Capitalisation Company (UECCC), Equity Bank, Stanbic Bank Uganda, and The World Bank Africa.
She noted that this coalition is crucial for overcoming the financial and infrastructural barriers that have historically slowed the adoption of clean cooking.
With the new CCU acting as the central hub, Uganda is now structurally equipped to manage the full complexity of the clean cooking transition, moving the country decisively toward a greener, healthier, and more resilient future.