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.
On 26th August 2026, the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) through the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Regional Centre 4 - Wakiso (RWSSRC 4), together w...
The Kalagala and Itanda Falls Conservation and Protection Project (KIFP) - will run up to 2031 under the Department of Environment Services. The project was prepared with the objective of mitigating the negative impacts of the Bujagali and Isimba Hydropower dams on biodiversity, eco-tourism, fragile ecosystem, cultural resources, and fisheries . It targets restoration of degraded forests , eco-tourism promotion, restoration of degraded fish breeding areas , establishment of Parish Development enterprises and riverbank management stretching from the Source of the Nile in Jinja up to the northern border district of Moyo. About the Project The Kalagala and Itanda Falls Conservation and Protection Project (KIFP) scales up the former Kalagala Site Management Plan (KSMP). Supported by five sectoral plans - spanning forest management, fisheries, ecotourism, fragile ecosystems, and community livelihoods - the project brings together line ministries, local governments, the Busoga Kingdom, civil society, and local communities.
Introduction The Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) with technical support from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is implementing a project titled “Reducing the climate change vulnerability of local communities in Uganda through Ecosystem Based Adaptation (EbA) in forest and wetland ecosystems”. The project is funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), Least Developed Country Fund (LDCF) totaling USD 4,350,000. The goal of this project is to reduce the vulnerability of communities living around wetlands and forests to climate change with the specific objective of increasing the technical and institutional capacity of government authorities and local communities in Uganda to implement EbA in wetland and forest ecosystems to reduce vulnerability of dependent communities to observed and anticipated effects of climate change. The project outcome areas: Outcome 1: Technical and institutional capacity at the local and national level to integrate EbA into existing management plans for wetlands and forests is strengthened Outcome 2: Climate change vulnerability of communities living around degraded wetlands and forests is decreased through the implementation of EbA interventions Outcome 3: Communities living at the project intervention sites have increased capacity to adopt alternative livelihoods and climate-resilient agriculture techniques to decrease their vulnerability to climate change and reduce degradation of wetlands and forests. Outcome 4: Increased knowledge and awareness of government officials and communities at project intervention sites of: i) the ecosystem services provided by wetlands and forests; and ii) the benefits of EbA for increasing the resilience of livelihoods to climate change Project intervention sites: This project is being implemented in four intervention areas-ecosystems R Enyau system (Arua; Arua City) R Sironko system (Sironko; Bulambuli) R Rwambu-Mpanga system (Ibanda; Kitagwenda and Kamwenge) R Rwizi-Nakivale system (Mbarara; Mbarara City)
European Green Deal – focused and strategic action to international response to forest on environmental issues. MoU for a Forest Partnership was signed on 8th November 2022 at COP27 (ASham el Sheikh). This was to ensure that Uganda’s forests continue to meet their social, economic and environmental benefits. The overall aim is to enhance the role of Ugandan forests in sustainable and inclusive national development, and address challenges related to deforestation, climate change and biodiversity loss. Specifically contributing to; Increasing the area of protected, restored or sustainably managed forests Increasing the number of forest related decent jobs Reducing of the annual rate of deforestation of natural forests Looking for ways to facilitate trade
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 Aims The 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 Components The 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 Scope The 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 Engagement The 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 Outlook The 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 Kalagala and Itanda Falls Conservation and Protection Project (KIFP) - will run up to 2031 under the Department of Environment Services. The project was prepared with the objective of mitigating the negative impacts of the Bujagali and Isimba Hydropower dams on biodiversity, eco-tourism, fragile ecosystem, cultural resources, and fisheries . It targets restoration of degraded forests , eco-tourism promotion, restoration of degraded fish breeding areas , establishment of Parish Development enterprises and riverbank management stretching from the Source of the Nile in Jinja up to the northern border district of Moyo. About the Project The Kalagala and Itanda Falls Conservation and Protection Project (KIFP) scales up the former Kalagala Site Management Plan (KSMP). Supported by five sectoral plans - spanning forest management, fisheries, ecotourism, fragile ecosystems, and community livelihoods - the project brings together line ministries, local governments, the Busoga Kingdom, civil society, and local communities.
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.