Uganda's Shs6 Trillion Water Expansion Plan Unveiled by Minister Musasizi

Finance Minister Henry Musasizi has announced a substantial investment of approximately Shs6.8 trillion (USD 1.8 billion) by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) for the period 2025-2030. This ambitious plan aims to significantly broaden access to safe and clean water throughout Uganda.

Speaking at the launch of a memoir by water specialist Dr. Callist Tindimugaya, Minister Musasizi emphasized that access to water is fundamental for both public health and economic prosperity. He highlighted several key government initiatives, including the Shs1.3 trillion Integrated Water Management and Development Project and various regional water-for-production projects designed to benefit drier areas like Karamoja and northern Uganda.

Expansion projects in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, such as the Kampala Water and Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project, have already boosted daily water production. Beyond urban centers, the government is focusing on expanding irrigation infrastructure, including solar-powered solutions for smallholder farmers, to reduce reliance on rain-fed agriculture. Several irrigation schemes, like the Atari River Basin and Acomai schemes, are undergoing development or rehabilitation.

Minister Musasizi also stressed the importance of protecting natural resources, such as lakes, rivers, and forests, as they are vital for Uganda’s economic growth, particularly in agro-industrialization, and serve as buffers against climate change impacts. He lauded Dr. Tindimugaya’s contributions to water policy and resource management, underscoring the value of documenting expertise for future generations.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/minister-musasizi-outlines-shs6t-nwsc-water-expansion-plan-5601588