Uganda's Water Sector Plagued by Elite Theft and Neglect, Forum Reveals

A recent National Operational and Maintenance (O&M) Forum in Uganda highlighted a grim reality: the nation’s water sector is suffering from widespread corruption and mismanagement, leaving ordinary citizens struggling for access.

Distrinct officials reported that influential individuals, referred to as ‘big shots,’ are using their clout to illegally connect to and divert water intended for public use. These powerful figures often consume vast amounts of water without paying, and resist disconnection efforts, leading to what one official described as ‘water apartheid’ where the wealthy take precedence over the poor.

Compounding the issue is a focus on construction over sustainability within the sector. Despite official high rates of water access, a significant percentage of existing facilities are non-functional. This is partly due to technical oversights, such as incorrectly sized pumps for solar power systems, leaving communities with unusable infrastructure for extended periods.

Innovative solutions are being piloted, including a ‘Token Tap’ system that uses pre-paid tokens to regulate water collection and ensure revenue for maintenance. This approach, alongside community engagement and a push for equitable service provision, aims to tackle the financial viability challenges and prevent the exploitation of water resources.

Stakeholders emphasized the need for a shift towards ‘systems-thinking,’ strict metering, and a commitment to equity to ensure Uganda’s water infrastructure serves all citizens effectively.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda) https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/thirsty-for-justice-big-shots-plunder-uganda-s-water-sector-as-infrastructure-crumbles-5460226