Access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right that many people in informal settlements, also known as slums, are deprived of. In Kampala, Uganda, numerous communities such as Katanga, Kamwokya, Kawempe, Nsambya, and Bwaise face significant challenges in accessing clean water sources, resulting in poor health and sanitation conditions. However, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) is actively working to address this pressing issue, making it an essential aspect of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts.
In Kampala, approximately 60% of the urban population resides in slum conditions where clean and safe water is scarce. Residents often resort to using dirty water, which poses severe health risks and can lead to diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, NWSC, through its subsidiary Kampala Water, launched the KW 1000 PSPs project in 2019. This initiative aims to establish 1000 public standpoints (PSPs) in urban pro-poor areas of the greater Kampala metropolitan area, including Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono, each financial year.
In the previous financial year (2021/2022), NWSC successfully installed 721 PSPs, and in the current year, over 500 additional points have been established. The installation of PSPs in areas such as Lusanja, Nabweru, Lutete, Kanyogoga, Katanga, Ndejje, Mulimira zone, Kyengera, Mutungo, and Kasokoso has significantly improved access to water. These PSPs provide clean and safe water at an affordable price of 50 shillings per jerrican, making it more accessible for the urban poor to fulfill their daily water needs. Moreover, this initiative has not only improved the living conditions of the residents but has also contributed to NWSC’s revenue growth, generating a monthly commercial revenue of UGX 378 million for the Kampala Water region.
The provision of water to informal settlements carries immense significance as a CSR initiative for NWSC. Let’s delve into the reasons why this endeavor is crucial:
Access to clean water; Informal settlements lack reliable and clean water sources. NWSC’s extension of services to these areas ensures that residents have access to safe drinking water, which is vital for maintaining good health and preventing waterborne diseases.
Improved sanitation; The availability of water is closely linked to improved sanitation practices. By providing water to informal settlements, NWSC supports the installation and maintenance of sanitation facilities such as toilets and handwashing stations. This contributes to a significant reduction in the risk of diseases caused by poor hygiene and sanitation practices.
Social equity and inclusivity; Access to water is a basic human right that should be available to all individuals, regardless of their economic or social status. By prioritizing informal settlements, NWSC addresses the needs of marginalized communities, promoting social equity and inclusivity. Ensuring that everyone has access to clean water aligns with the principles of social responsibility.
Public health and environmental benefits; Ensuring access to clean water in informal settlements not only improves public health but also has broader environmental benefits. When people have access to clean water within their communities, they are less likely to resort to unregulated water sources or practices that may lead to pollution or resource depletion.
Stakeholder engagement and collaboration; NWSC has taken an active role in engaging with informal settlements through initiatives like House to House and Big-Ap. By collaborating with local organizations, community leaders such as LC Chairpersons, and residents, NWSC has been able to develop more effective and sustainable water management solutions. This approach has also provided valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by informal settlements.
While providing water to informal settlements is a significant CSR initiative, NWSC acknowledges the importance of addressing other social and environmental issues as part of a broader strategy. Therefore, the corporation is actively involved in conserving the environment through tree planting initiatives, improving Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) conditions in schools through the School Water and Sanitation (SWAS) program, and investing in infrastructure development for long-term sustainability.
NWSC’s commitment to scaling up access to water and sanitation in informal settlements is not only a significant CSR initiative but also a testament to their dedication to improving the living conditions and well-being of marginalized communities. By providing clean and safe water, NWSC ensures access to a basic human right, promotes social equity and inclusivity, and contributes to public health and environmental sustainability. Through stakeholder engagement and collaboration, NWSC is fostering stronger relationships with the communities it serves, leading to more effective and sustainable water management solutions.
As NWSC continues to expand its efforts and address broader social and environmental issues, the impact on these communities will be transformative, ultimately creating a brighter future for all.
