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{
    "id": 1554451,
    "url": "https://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/1554451/?format=api",
    "text_counter": 305,
    "type": "speech",
    "speaker_name": "Homa Bay Town, ODM",
    "speaker_title": "Hon. Peter Kaluma",
    "speaker": null,
    "content": "for electricity distribution, the impact is that all our schools and learning institutions struggling with electrification will be electrified, and progress in the education sector will be achieved. Parts of our economy, particularly the digital economy, depend on electricity. We are starting ICT hubs in every ward in the country, and you cannot run them without an electric power supply. Our young people can even apply for jobs externally or offsite. The cost of energy is a big issue when dealing with the state of our economy. I applaud this intervention by the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning on behalf of Parliament. However, I want to conclude by suggesting that after reducing the cost of excise duty, there should be a meeting between the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning and the Departmental Committee on Energy. This will allow us to rationalise the other interventions affecting the cost of electricity, such as the cost of petroleum. That way, we can support local industries. Currently, due to high energy costs, many of our companies are moving to neighbouring countries where production is cheaper. They are now bringing goods back here under the East African Common Tariff. A meeting between the Committees is necessary. We thank the Committee and Parliament for this intervention and fully support it. This is a matter that will improve livelihoods, including in the health sector. Many of our health institutions do not have electric power, which affects the storage of specimens and drugs that need refrigeration, ultimately hurting the country's Universal Health Coverage (UHC) initiative. This is a positive intervention. We are confirming to the country that where we need to be reasonable and reduce costs, we are doing so. The other issues will be considered as we go along. I support this critical amendment and urge Members of this House to join the Committee in supporting it. Thank you."
}