The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has kicked off the rollout of its prepaid metering system in Gulu City, beginning with a hands-on engagement with Local Council One (LC1) leaders.
In a meeting held earlier today, May 13th, 2025 LC1 chairpersons from across Gulu gathered for a comprehensive briefing and training session aimed at preparing them for their role in registering customers for the new system. NWSC Gulu Area Manager Fred Businge described the leaders as central to reaching households most in need of the service.
“These meters are tailored for people who may not afford the cost of a full water connection,” Mr. Businge said. “With prepaid metering, we can reach more homes and ensure fair access to clean, safe water.”
The initiative also targets a long-standing problem in many low-income communities: water resale by intermediaries who charge residents inflated prices. By placing control directly in the hands of consumers, the system is expected to eliminate such exploitation and make water more affordable.
Mr. Businge urged LC1 leaders to support meter protection and usage tracking within their areas. He also emphasized that their involvement will help ensure that the right households are registered and that the system is introduced smoothly.
A total of 140 prepaid meters have been earmarked for this first phase, which focuses on underserved communities. The rollout is part of NWSC’s broader push to improve efficiency and expand access to basic water services in urban areas.
