Uganda's Water PS Okidi Honored for Lake Victoria Conservation Efforts

Dr. Alfred Okot Okidi, the driving force behind Uganda’s Ministry of Water and Environment, has been publicly recognized for his instrumental role in fostering the sustainable development of the Lake Victoria basin. The accolade was presented by Tanzanian Prime Minister, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, during the inaugural Regional Lake Victoria Day commemorations held in Mwanza, Tanzania.

This award underscores Dr. Okidi’s dedication to regional cooperation and his persistent advocacy for the unified protection of Africa’s largest freshwater lake. Under his leadership, the East African Community has increasingly embraced coordinated, cross-border strategies for resource management, moving beyond individual national efforts.

Dr. Okidi has consistently emphasized the critical importance of Lake Victoria to Uganda’s national interests. “For Uganda, a compromised Lake Victoria would mean not only environmental degradation, but also energy insecurity and economic disruption,” he stated, addressing regional leaders.

As Uganda governs about 45% of the lake, its health is directly linked to the nation’s energy production. Lake Victoria is the primary source for the River Nile, which through a series of dams like Nalubaale, Kiira, Bujagali, Isimba, and Karuma, generates over 90% of Uganda’s electricity.

Other notable Ugandans also received recognition, including Edith Mwanje, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of East African Community Affairs, and the late Dr. Tom Okurut, the founding Executive Secretary of the Lake Victoria Basin Commission. Their contributions to regional collaboration and the basin’s sustainable management were also celebrated.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)