We are committed to ensuring sustainable management of Uganda's water and environment resources for the benefit of present and future generations. Our mission is to promote and ensure the rational and sustainable utilization of water and environment resources for socio-economic development.
Our Mission Statement:
To promote efficient and effective utilization of water and environment resources for a healthy, wealthy and climate resilient population
Vision Statement:
Transformed Ugandan Society with environment and natural resources sustainably managed.
The Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project (STWSSP), managed under the Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Department, is a critical initiative aimed at addressing the growing demand for safe water and improved sanitation in Uganda’s strategic urban centers and surrounding communities. The project is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) – ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Its focus on infrastructure development and climate resilience underscores a forward-thinking approach to sustainable urban development.Overall Goal and Specific AimsThe overarching goal of the Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project is to improve public health and socio-economic development in targeted towns and communities by providing access to reliable, safe, and sustainably managed water supply and sanitation services. More specifically, the project aims to:Expand and rehabilitate water supply infrastructure to meet the increasing demand in strategic towns.Improve sanitation facilities and services to enhance public health and environmental protection.Construct climate-resilient piped water supply facilities to safeguard against the impacts of climate change, such as droughts and floods.Increase water supply service coverage in underserved communities, including rural areas, peri-urban settlements, and refugee settlements, promoting equitable access.Strengthen the institutional capacity of water utilities and local authorities for sustainable operation and maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure.Project ComponentsThe project’s strategy is designed to achieve its comprehensive objectives through various interlinked activities, primarily focusing on:Infrastructure Development and Management: This core component involves the planning, design, and construction of new water treatment plants, distribution networks, storage reservoirs, and public water points. It also includes the rehabilitation and upgrading of existing infrastructure to improve efficiency and reliability.Construction of Climate-Resilient Piped Water Supply Facilities: Recognizing the vulnerability of water resources to climate change, this component prioritizes the use of climate-resilient technologies and designs. This includes measures such as robust intake structures, diversified water sources, and energy-efficient pumping systems to ensure continuity of service during extreme weather events.Construction of Water Supply Infrastructure to Increase Service in Underserved Communities: This critical component addresses the disparity in access to water. It focuses on extending piped water networks to rural growth centers, informal urban settlements, and designated refugee settlements, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations have access to safe water.Sanitation Infrastructure Development: This component encompasses the construction and upgrading of sewerage systems, faecal sludge management facilities, and public sanitation facilities in urban areas, contributing to improved hygiene and environmental sanitation.Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening: This involves training and technical assistance for water utility staff, local government officials, and community structures to enhance their capacity in water resource management, operation and maintenance of infrastructure, financial management, and customer service.Key Project Areas and ScopeThe Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project targets various strategic towns and their surrounding areas across Uganda, chosen based on population density, economic potential, and existing water and sanitation service gaps. While specific towns may vary based on project phases and funding, the project broadly covers:Urban and Peri-Urban Areas: Focusing on district headquarters and other rapidly growing towns that require significant upgrades and expansion of their water supply and sanitation systems.Rural Growth Centers: Extending services to smaller but growing rural communities that serve as important economic hubs.Refugee Settlements: Addressing the critical water and sanitation needs of populations in refugee settlements, often in partnership with humanitarian organizations, to ensure dignified living conditions and prevent disease outbreaks.Key Activities and Stakeholder EngagementThe project emphasizes active engagement with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and long-term sustainability:Feasibility Studies and Detailed Designs: Thorough technical and environmental assessments are conducted to ensure optimal and sustainable infrastructure solutions.Procurement and Construction Supervision: Transparent procurement processes and rigorous supervision ensure quality construction and adherence to standards.Community Mobilization and Sensitization: Engaging local communities is crucial for promoting ownership, ensuring proper use of facilities, and encouraging demand for services. This includes hygiene promotion campaigns.Partnerships with Local Governments and Water Utilities: Collaborative efforts with local authorities and the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) are essential for project implementation, operation, and maintenance.Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring of project progress, service delivery, and impact is undertaken to ensure accountability and inform future interventions.Impact and Future OutlookThe Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project is poised to make a transformative impact on the lives of millions of Ugandans. By expanding access to safe water and improved sanitation, the project will significantly contribute to:Reduced incidence of waterborne diseases: Leading to improved public health outcomes, especially for women and children.Enhanced productivity and economic growth: By reducing time spent fetching water and improving health, communities can engage more in productive activities.Improved environmental sustainability: Through better wastewater management and reduced pollution of water sources.Increased resilience to climate change: By investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, the project safeguards water security for future generations.The ongoing efforts and successes of the Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project are vital for Uganda’s journey towards achieving universal access to safe and sustainable water and sanitation, laying a strong foundation for a healthier and more prosperous future.
ICRPProject OverviewThe Irrigation for Climate Resilience Project (ICRP) aims to support the shift towards more resilient agriculture through the development of sustainable irrigation services. Access to irrigation is critical to allow farmers coping with climate variability, to increase yield and intensification, and diversify towards higher value crops. The project will address Uganda’s climate change vulnerabilities by: (i) promoting adoption of irrigation by smallholder farmers, in synergy with other agriculture inputs and technologies; (ii) increasing water storage capacity; and (iii) promoting sustainable catchment management. This change will be market-driven, with irrigation becoming the anchor for stronger producer organizations and development of value chains.The project is implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE), with the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) as technical implementation partner.Project Development ObjectivesTo provide farmers with access to irrigation and other agricultural services, and to establish management arrangements for irrigation service delivery.
The P4P project is a 3year project (2025 to 2027) Commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and being implemented in Uganda and Rwanda. The projects political Partners are Ministry of Water and Environment-Uganda (MoWE) and Ministry of Environment- Rwanda (MoE) while the Implementing Partners include Deutsche Gesellschaft für International Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) Michel Succow Foundation (MSF), partner in the Greifswald Mire Centre (GMC), Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Budget 9.5 Mio.The Project intervention approach includes; Improving technical capacity to enable science-based policy decisions for the sustainable management of peat lands.Demonstrating sustainable value creation with pluviculture products from restored peatland landscapes.Developing the foundations for a financing mechanism for the long-term sustainable management of peatlands.Strengthening regional and international collaboration and exchange on sustainable peatland management.
FIEFOC IIThe Farm Income Enhancement and Forest Conservation Programme – Project 2 (FIEFOC – 2) has been a significant development initiative for Uganda, designed within the context of the Government’s National Development Plan II (NDP II) and the long-term development strategy, Vision 2040. Both national frameworks have promoted agricultural infrastructure and income enhancement as key drivers of socio-economic progress. Building upon the achievements of its predecessor, FIEFOC 1 (which concluded in December 2012), FIEFOC – 2 has played a crucial role in the national agenda to significantly increase the land area under irrigated agriculture from 14,418 hectares in 2014 towards the ambitious target of about 420,000 hectares by 2035. The project has completed its operations in December 2024, following a “no cost extension” agreement between the African Development Bank and the Government of Uganda.ABOUT FIEFOC IIFarm Income Enhancement and Forest Conservation Programme – Project 2 (FIEFOC –2) is designed within the context of the Government of Uganda’s National Development Plan II (NDP II), and the long term development strategy, the Vision 2040 both of which promote agricultural infrastructure and income enhancement. The project was initially designed as a five – year development project (2016-2021), but was later extended under “no cost extension” to December 2024, following an agreement between the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Government of Uganda (GoU). The project is further designed to assist the Government of Uganda increase land area under irrigated agriculture from 14,418 hectares in 2014 to about 420,000 hectares by 2035. The project also seeks to consolidate and expand notable achievements registered under FIEFOC 1, which ended in December 2012.The overall objective of FIEFOC – 2 is to contribute to poverty reduction and economic growth in Uganda through enhanced productivity and commercialization of agriculture. Specifically, the project aims to improve household incomes, food security and climate resilience through sustainable natural resources management and agricultural enterprise development.The project has four components, including Agricultural Infrastructure Development, Agribusiness Development, Integrated Natural Resources Management and Project Coordination. The primary project beneficiaries, estimated at 1,816,756 are found in the districts of Pakwach, Oyam, Butaleja, Kween, and Kasese, where five irrigation schemes are constructed. These include Mubuku II irrigation scheme (Kasese district), Doho II irrigation scheme (Butaleja District), Tochi irrigation scheme (Oyam District), Ngenge irrigation scheme (Kween District) and Wadelai irrigation scheme (Pakwach District).The Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) jointly implement the project. The water ministry is the executing agency, responsible for implementation of irrigation infrastructure and related activities under project component one and the natural resources management activities under component three. While the agriculture ministry is a key implementing partner, responsible for implementation of agronomy and extension related activities and the agri-business development.The African Development Bank (AfDB), Nordic Development Fund (NDF) and the Government of Uganda (GoU) are the key financiers of the project at the tune of USD 91, 43 million. Overall Objective and Specific Aims: The overarching objective of FIEFOC – 2 has been to contribute substantially to poverty reduction and economic growth in Uganda through enhanced productivity and commercialization of agriculture. More specifically, the project has aimed to:Improve household incomes and food security.Strengthen climate resilience among farming communities.Achieve these goals through sustainable natural resources management and robust agricultural enterprise development.Project Components: The project has been structured around four key components to achieve its comprehensive objectives:Agricultural Infrastructure Development: Has focused on the construction and rehabilitation of vital agricultural infrastructure, primarily irrigation schemes.Agribusiness Development: Has aimed at supporting the commercialization of agriculture by strengthening value chains and market linkages for farmers.Integrated Natural Resources Management: Has focused on promoting sustainable land use, soil and water conservation, and forest conservation to ensure the long-term health of the environment supporting agriculture.Project Coordination: Has ensured efficient management, monitoring, and evaluation across all project activities and implementing partners.Key Achievements and Scope: FIEFOC – 2 has delivered significant tangible outcomes across its target areas. The project’s primary beneficiaries, estimated at 1,816,756 individuals, have been found in the districts of Pakwach, Oyam, Butaleja, Kween, and Kasese. A cornerstone of the project’s success has been the construction of five major irrigation schemes:Mubuku II irrigation scheme (Kasese District)Doho II irrigation scheme (Butaleja District)Tochi irrigation scheme (Oyam District)Ngenge irrigation scheme (Kween District)Wadelai irrigation scheme (Pakwach District)Ministry Roles in Implementation: The project has been a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE): As the executing agency, MWE has been responsible for the implementation of irrigation infrastructure and related activities under the Agricultural Infrastructure Development component (Component 1). MWE also has led the natural resources management activities under Component 3.Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF): As a key implementing partner, MAAIF has been responsible for agronomy and extension-related activities, as well as agribusiness development initiatives under Component 2.Impact and Legacy: The completion of FIEFOC – 2 has marked a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey towards agricultural transformation and climate resilience. The five newly constructed irrigation schemes have provided essential infrastructure to support year-round farming, reduce climate vulnerability, and boost food security in their respective regions. The project’s integrated approach to agricultural development and natural resources management has laid a stronger foundation for sustainable farming practices, contributing directly to poverty reduction and enhanced economic growth for hundreds of thousands of beneficiaries across the targeted districts. The experiences and lessons learned from FIEFOC-2 continue to inform future strategies for sustainable agriculture and water resource management in Uganda.
The Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project (STWSSP), managed under the Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Department, is a critical initiative aimed at addressing the growing demand for safe water and improved sanitation in Uganda’s strategic urban centers and surrounding communities. The project is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) – ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. Its focus on infrastructure development and climate resilience underscores a forward-thinking approach to sustainable urban development.Overall Goal and Specific AimsThe overarching goal of the Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project is to improve public health and socio-economic development in targeted towns and communities by providing access to reliable, safe, and sustainably managed water supply and sanitation services. More specifically, the project aims to:Expand and rehabilitate water supply infrastructure to meet the increasing demand in strategic towns.Improve sanitation facilities and services to enhance public health and environmental protection.Construct climate-resilient piped water supply facilities to safeguard against the impacts of climate change, such as droughts and floods.Increase water supply service coverage in underserved communities, including rural areas, peri-urban settlements, and refugee settlements, promoting equitable access.Strengthen the institutional capacity of water utilities and local authorities for sustainable operation and maintenance of water and sanitation infrastructure.Project ComponentsThe project’s strategy is designed to achieve its comprehensive objectives through various interlinked activities, primarily focusing on:Infrastructure Development and Management: This core component involves the planning, design, and construction of new water treatment plants, distribution networks, storage reservoirs, and public water points. It also includes the rehabilitation and upgrading of existing infrastructure to improve efficiency and reliability.Construction of Climate-Resilient Piped Water Supply Facilities: Recognizing the vulnerability of water resources to climate change, this component prioritizes the use of climate-resilient technologies and designs. This includes measures such as robust intake structures, diversified water sources, and energy-efficient pumping systems to ensure continuity of service during extreme weather events.Construction of Water Supply Infrastructure to Increase Service in Underserved Communities: This critical component addresses the disparity in access to water. It focuses on extending piped water networks to rural growth centers, informal urban settlements, and designated refugee settlements, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations have access to safe water.Sanitation Infrastructure Development: This component encompasses the construction and upgrading of sewerage systems, faecal sludge management facilities, and public sanitation facilities in urban areas, contributing to improved hygiene and environmental sanitation.Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening: This involves training and technical assistance for water utility staff, local government officials, and community structures to enhance their capacity in water resource management, operation and maintenance of infrastructure, financial management, and customer service.Key Project Areas and ScopeThe Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project targets various strategic towns and their surrounding areas across Uganda, chosen based on population density, economic potential, and existing water and sanitation service gaps. While specific towns may vary based on project phases and funding, the project broadly covers:Urban and Peri-Urban Areas: Focusing on district headquarters and other rapidly growing towns that require significant upgrades and expansion of their water supply and sanitation systems.Rural Growth Centers: Extending services to smaller but growing rural communities that serve as important economic hubs.Refugee Settlements: Addressing the critical water and sanitation needs of populations in refugee settlements, often in partnership with humanitarian organizations, to ensure dignified living conditions and prevent disease outbreaks.Key Activities and Stakeholder EngagementThe project emphasizes active engagement with a wide range of stakeholders to ensure effective implementation and long-term sustainability:Feasibility Studies and Detailed Designs: Thorough technical and environmental assessments are conducted to ensure optimal and sustainable infrastructure solutions.Procurement and Construction Supervision: Transparent procurement processes and rigorous supervision ensure quality construction and adherence to standards.Community Mobilization and Sensitization: Engaging local communities is crucial for promoting ownership, ensuring proper use of facilities, and encouraging demand for services. This includes hygiene promotion campaigns.Partnerships with Local Governments and Water Utilities: Collaborative efforts with local authorities and the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) are essential for project implementation, operation, and maintenance.Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring of project progress, service delivery, and impact is undertaken to ensure accountability and inform future interventions.Impact and Future OutlookThe Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project is poised to make a transformative impact on the lives of millions of Ugandans. By expanding access to safe water and improved sanitation, the project will significantly contribute to:Reduced incidence of waterborne diseases: Leading to improved public health outcomes, especially for women and children.Enhanced productivity and economic growth: By reducing time spent fetching water and improving health, communities can engage more in productive activities.Improved environmental sustainability: Through better wastewater management and reduced pollution of water sources.Increased resilience to climate change: By investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, the project safeguards water security for future generations.The ongoing efforts and successes of the Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project are vital for Uganda’s journey towards achieving universal access to safe and sustainable water and sanitation, laying a strong foundation for a healthier and more prosperous future.
The Ministry of Water and Environment is committed to avoiding, minimizing, and mitigating adverse environmental and social impacts associated with its projects, as well as adopting a gender-sensitive and gender-equitable approach for all its projects.
