The Minister of State for Water and Environment, Betty Anywar, has directed the newly inaugurated Board of Directors of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) to prioritize innovation, climate resilience, and sound governance as Uganda accelerates efforts toward universal access to safe water and sanitation.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Water and Environment, Sam Cheptoris, Anywar delivered the charge on Friday, January 30, during the board’s inauguration ceremony at the International Resource Centre (IRC) in Bugolobi.
She said the appointments come at a critical time when rapid urbanisation, climate change, and rising demand for water services are placing increasing pressure on national infrastructure.
“This is not merely an honour; it is a call to serve the nation at a critical moment when access to safe water and sanitation remains central to public health, economic growth, and sustainable development,” Anywar said.
The minister urged the board to embrace new technologies and cost-effective solutions to expand service coverage affordably, while aligning the corporation’s strategy with Vision 2040 and the Sustainable Development Goals, which commit Uganda to universal access to water and sanitation.
She further emphasized strict adherence to government performance standards, prudent financial management, and the protection of water sources from pollution and encroachment. Climate resilience, she added, must be embedded in all infrastructure planning, including the protection of wetlands and catchment areas.
Anywar commended the outgoing board members Racheal Kiconco Mbabazi, Sarah Onyiru, Rtd. Col. Stephen Basaliza, and Mr. George Runge for strengthening the corporation’s foundation and expanding its geographical footprint. However, she cautioned that the pace of urban growth continues to outstrip current water coverage, requiring renewed strategic focus.
Presenting a performance brief for the 2020–2025 period, outgoing Board Chairperson Eng. Dr. Badru Kiggundu reported significant operational and financial growth despite disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said total water connections increased by 39 percent, surpassing one million customers, while the number of villages served rose by 54 percent, from 7,192 to 11,088. Annual revenue collections grew by 59 percent to UGX 620 billion, with profit before depreciation closing the period at UGX 161 billion.
Dr. Kiggundu attributed the gains to the mobilisation of UGX 160 billion in financing for major infrastructure projects, including the Katosi Drinking Water Treatment Plant and the Nakivubo Wastewater Treatment Plant.
However, he noted that non-revenue water remains high at 34.4 percent, largely due to illegal connections, vandalism, and ageing distribution networks.
NWSC Managing Director Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha reported that the utility recorded its highest-ever operating surplus of UGX 162 billion in the 2024/25 financial year, up from UGX 142 billion the previous year.
He highlighted major engineering milestones, including the 70-kilometre Karuma–Gulu project, which now supplies River Nile water to Gulu City, and the Kagera Water Project, serving communities in the cattle corridor.
Dr. Mugisha also announced a planned UGX 660 billion investment programme, jointly financed by the Government of Uganda and NWSC, aimed at extending water and sanitation services across the country.
Beyond infrastructure, he said the corporation is strengthening institutional capacity through competence-based training, increased investment in research and development, and improved staff welfare, including tailored medical and provident funds.
The event was witnessed by Paul Gadenya Wolimbwa. Addressing the gathering, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment, Alfred Okot Okiidi, raised concern over unpaid government water bills, describing the situation as unfair to a performing public utility. He said the ministry has submitted recommendations to Parliament to address the arrears.
Incoming Board Chairperson Prof. Henry Alinaitwe Mwanaki pledged to build on the existing foundation, working closely with management to improve efficiency, enhance customer service, and advance the “water for all” agenda.
