Since its inception in 1972 under Decree No. 34, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has been steadfast in its mission to deliver clean and safe water to the people of Uganda. Initially serving only three major towns; Kampala, Jinja, and Entebbe, NWSC has significantly broadened its scope over the years to 276 towns across 95 districts in the country.
NWSC’s commitment to ensuring access to clean water for every household is reflected in its strategic initiatives which include the construction of multiple water treatment plants across various regions such as but not limited to; Ggaba, Katosi, Kyankwanzi, Arua, Manafwa, Masindi, and Gulu. Additionally, NWSC promotes inclusivity by drilling boreholes, enhancing network infrastructure, and implementing numerous other initiatives to facilitate widespread access to clean water.
However, despite these efforts, NWSC faces the challenge of meeting the growing demand for clean water while contending with the expanding population it serves. To address this challenge and align with its mission of providing water for all, NWSC is seeking approximately 90 million Euros to fund various projects. These projects encompass the construction of boosters, reservoirs, and intensified efforts aimed at improving water supply to areas facing water scarcity.
During a recent press briefing at the Katosi Drinking Water Treatment Plant (KDWTP) in Mukono District, the Deputy Managing Director of Technical Services, Eng. Johnson Amayo, revealed the corporation’s need for financial support to undertake critical projects. Eng. Amayo emphasized that the current production capacity of the Katosi DWTP stands at 50%, attributing this to challenges in accessing adequate materials for water distribution.
Eng. Amayo further explained that the allocated funds would facilitate the establishment of an efficient distribution network, which would connect reservoirs and boosters to ensure the seamless supply of water to households all over the country. These revelations followed a courtesy visit to the plant by the French Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Xavier Sticker.
However, as was in order, Eng. Amayo expressed gratitude to the governments of Uganda and France, particularly Agence Francaise de Development (AFD), for their unwavering support in improving public health and living standards through widespread access to clean water.
It is crucial to highlight the significance of the Katosi Drinking Water Treatment Plant, designed to produce 160,000m³ per day, and serve over 2.5 million people. The urgency of completing pipeline extension works and other necessary specifications for water evacuation cannot be overstated.
Additionally, Eng. Amayo shed light on the grant awarded by AFD to NWSC for conducting a feasibility study in Hoima, Fort Portal, and Lira. This study aims to identify areas for improvement concerning health, climate change, and various other factors, further underlining NWSC’s commitment to enhancing water accessibility and quality of life across the nation.
