Socio-Economic Contribution of Rural Electrification in SNNPR: The Case of Sidama Zone

Abstract

This research is intended to assess the benefits and contributions of rural electrification in SNNPR particularly in Sidama zone. The data used in this paper is collected through interview schedule and use of questionnaire. Tables and graphs were used to show the benefits and contribution of rural electrification in comparison to traditional fuel sources. The study revealed that rural electrification produced many social and economical benefits such as cost saving both with respect to time and money. It does also have immense contribution in mitigating heath problems as compared to traditional fuel sources, such as, wood and “Kubet” (a local term for dried dung). The assessment has also shown that rural electrification tends to reduce deforestation and enhance environmental protection. Despite the many social and economical benefits identified by the investigations, the institution EEPCO has many gaps in the coverage of rural electrification in the region, especially, in availability of supplies with regard to the distribution of KWHM and transformers.