A sensitization drive was successfully conducted at St. Stephen’s Church in Kisugu, on June 11th, 2023. This was organized by the Kansanga Branch and led by the Director of Business and Scientific Services, Dr. Rose Kaggwa.
The primary goal of the drive was to connect with customers and raise awareness about the vital importance of water access and sanitation. Engaging with the community is a crucial aspect of NWSC’s mission, and what better place to reach people from all walks of life than a church.
During her address, Dr. Kaggwa highlighted the paramount importance of water and drew attention to the fact that access to clean water is a fundamental human right that should never be taken for granted. She emphasized that over 2 billion people, with a significant percentage residing in Uganda, still lack access to clean water. Furthermore, she stressed that 3.6 billion individuals do not have access to safe sanitation facilities.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Dr. Kaggwa mentioned that Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure clean water and sanitation for all by 2030, is falling behind schedule due to financial constraints. However, NWSC remains committed to serving the people of Uganda and bridging this gap.
Providing a brief overview of NWSC’s operations, Dr. Kaggwa informed the congregation that the Corporation now operates in 270 towns from 2013 to the present day. NWSC’s primary services include supplying potable water and treating sewerage, with sewerage treatment coverage currently at 30%. The Corporation produces 240 million liters of water per day at the Gaba plant and 160 million liters per day at the Katosi plant. She further emphasized NWSC’s dedication to ensuring water quality and conducting ongoing research in the field of water and sanitation.
Calling upon the congregation to actively contribute to improving water and sanitation conditions, Dr. Kaggwa stressed the importance of cleaning their water storage tanks. She recommended that every household clean their tanks at least once a year. Additionally, she urged individuals to promptly report leakages and bursts to enable NWSC to address them effectively.
Ms. Edith Nabagereka, the Branch Manager-Kansanga, provided an overview of the branch structure, introducing the various sub-branches and their respective managers. These sub-branches, including Bukasa under the management of Pamela Niwesiima, Lukuli under Patience Namara, and Makindye under Joel Mwesiga, were established to bring services closer to the community.
In her address, Ms. Nabagereka encouraged customers to pay their bills promptly, emphasizing the importance of timely payments for sustaining the provision of water services. She also announced an amnesty for customers who have been disconnected, allowing them to pay their outstanding bills in installments until November. However, she sternly cautioned against water theft and illegal connections, highlighting the financial losses incurred by the Corporation as a result of such activities.
Through engaging with the congregation, the corporation has underscored the collective responsibility of individuals and communities in ensuring access to clean water and maintaining proper sanitation practices.