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.
Minister of Water & Environment
Minister of State for Environment
Minister of State for Water
Minister of Water & Environment
Minister of State for Environment
Minister of State for Water
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The Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE), through the Regional Centre – South West, in partnershi...
The Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE), through the Multi-purpose and Bulk Water Development (M...
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GCF-Wetlands The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is a pivotal financial mechanism under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), dedicated to supporting developing countries in their efforts to limit or reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. In Uganda, the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) is an accredited entity and plays a central role in accessing and managing GCF resources to implement transformative climate action. GCF projects in Uganda are designed to build resilience in communities and ecosystems, promote sustainable land and water management, and foster low-carbon development pathways. These initiatives are crucial for Uganda to achieve its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and sustainable development goals. Key Objectives of GCF Projects in Uganda: GCF projects in Uganda typically focus on a range of strategic objectives aimed at addressing critical climate vulnerabilities and promoting sustainable development: Building Climate Resilience in Vulnerable Communities: To enhance the adaptive capacity of communities, particularly those dependent on natural resources, to cope with climate change impacts such as droughts, floods, and unpredictable weather patterns. Expected Activities: Restoring degraded wetlands and associated catchments; promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices and alternative livelihoods; developing and strengthening early warning systems for climate-related disasters. Enhancing Ecosystem Health and Services: To restore and conserve vital ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests, which provide essential services for climate regulation, water security, and biodiversity. Expected Activities: Large-scale wetland restoration and rehabilitation; sustainable land management practices in catchment areas; promoting reforestation and afforestation initiatives. Promoting Climate-Resilient Water Security: To ensure sustainable access to water resources for communities, agriculture, and livestock, especially in drought-prone regions. Expected Activities: Development and rehabilitation of climate-resilient water infrastructure (e.g., solar-powered boreholes, earth dams); promotion of rainwater harvesting technologies; integrated water resource management. Fostering Low-Carbon Development: To support transitions towards a low-emission economy by promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Expected Activities: Facilitating access to renewable energy technologies (e.g., solar energy for households and communities); supporting sustainable land use practices that reduce emissions. Strengthening Institutional Capacity and Climate Information Systems: To enhance the capacity of national and local institutions to effectively plan, implement, and monitor climate change interventions, and to improve the availability and use of climate information. Expected Activities: Providing technical training and resources to government agencies and local communities; strengthening climate data collection, analysis, and dissemination; integrating climate considerations into national and sub-national development planning. Project Scope Description: GCF projects in Uganda typically involve significant financial grants and technical assistance to support the implementation of large-scale, multi-sectoral interventions. The scope often encompasses: Grant Financing: Direct financial support for project activities, leveraging co-financing from the Government of Uganda and other development partners. Technical Assistance and Capacity Building: Provision of expertise, training, and knowledge transfer to strengthen the technical and institutional capacities of implementing partners and beneficiaries. Community Engagement and Livelihood Support: Direct engagement with vulnerable communities to identify their needs, build their adaptive capacity, and provide alternative sustainable livelihoods. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning: Robust systems for tracking project progress, measuring impacts, and generating lessons learned to inform future climate action. Policy and Regulatory Support: Contributions to the development and implementation of supportive policies and regulatory frameworks that enable effective climate change adaptation and mitigation. GCF projects, such as the “Building Resilient Communities, Wetland Ecosystems and Associated Catchments in Uganda” project, exemplify Uganda’s commitment to tackling climate change through integrated and community-centric approaches, ultimately aiming for a more resilient and sustainable future.
August 8, 2024 – Kabarole District: The Ministry of Water and Environment has officially launched an ambitious watershed management and nature-based conservation project aimed at safeguarding the Mpanga catchment area, which spans approximately 5,200 km² across the districts of Kabarole, Kyenjojo, Kitagwenda, Kamwenge, Kazo, Ibanda, Mbarara, and Kiruhura. This project is set to play a pivotal role in addressing pressing environmental challenges, including wetland encroachment, river bank degradation, and pollution, as identified in the Mpanga Catchment Management Plan (CMP) completed in 2015. The CMP has been actively implemented by both government and non-government actors under the leadership of the Directorate of Water Resources Management through the Albert Water Management Zone (AWMZ) since 2015. With a fresh injection of funding from the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, the Ministry is poised to intensify efforts in watershed management and nature-based water conservation activities within the Mpanga catchment. The project launch, held in Fort Portal Tourism City, Kabarole District, was graced by the Director Water Resources Management, Dr Callist who represented the Minister of Water and Environment and who delivered an inspiring speech. “It is my honor and privilege to be with you today at the launch of this transformative initiative, made possible through the generous support of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation,” the Minister began. “This project marks a significant milestone for sustainable water management and environmental stewardship in the Mpanga Catchment.” Project Goals and Objectives The primary goal of this project is to bolster the implementation of the Mpanga Catchment Management Plan by enhancing the capacity of the AWMZ and Catchment Management Organizations (CMOs). Specific objectives include: Building the capacity of catchment management organizations to improve institutional processes, planning, and management through targeted training programs. Strengthening the AWMZ staff’s ability to coordinate activities through enhanced skills in work planning, monitoring, and conducting technical tests to ensure effective implementation. Supporting the restoration and implementation of priority conservation measures within the catchment. Positioning the AWMZ as a model for catchment-based water resources management by promoting institutional cooperation and disseminating success stories from the Mpanga catchment. Project Timeline and Funding The project is slated to run for three years, from June 2024 to June 2027, with a total budget of 1.395 million USD, generously provided by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. The Ministry of Water and Environment will lead the project, collaborating closely with key partners such as Water for People and Join for Water, along with additional consultancy firms to be procured by the Ministry. Anticipated Benefits The project is expected to yield significant environmental and institutional benefits, including: Restoration of degraded landscapes through afforestation on both private and public lands. Restoration and demarcation of wetland systems and their buffer zones. Establishment of soil and water conservation structures. Installation of a mini weather station within the Mpanga catchment. Construction of a hydro-monitoring station at the Mpanga catchment outlet. Capacity building for the Mpanga Catchment Management Organization (CMO) to enhance its operational effectiveness. The Minister highlighted the project’s focus on scaling up these efforts: “Today, we embark on a journey to scale up the implementation of remedial catchment management measures in the Mpanga Catchment to safeguard our precious water and environmental resources for generations. This project will focus on data collection, wetland restoration, re-afforestation, and capacity development of the Catchment Management Organization.” As the project officially gets underway, it marks a significant step forward in the sustainable management of the Mpanga catchment, ensuring the protection and conservation of vital water resources for the communities and ecosystems that depend on them. The Minister concluded by expressing gratitude to the partners involved: “I appreciate the Water For People team working tirelessly with the Ministry staff in drafting the project proposal. I also acknowledge Join For Water for their support in the preparatory meetings.” The launch event was attended by key stakeholders, including district chairpersons, resident district commissioners, chief administrative officers, representatives from civil society organizations, the private sector, religious institutions, and the media. This ambitious project underscores the Ministry of Water and Environment’s commitment to sustainable environmental management and its role in contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.
Project: Mobilization and Institutional Facilitation of Sanitation (UN-Habitat) Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation program (LVWATSAN) was first launched in 2004 by the Ministers responsible for water within the East Africa Community (EAC) with the aim of achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) for water and sanitation in the ‘secondary urban centres’ within the Lake Victoria Basin; ensuring the long term sustainability of the physical investments; addressing the current threats to the lake’s ecosystems from inadequate water and sanitation provision in the secondary and larger settlements around the Lake. LVWATSAN was designed by UN-HABITAT at the request of the Ministers of Water of the EAC for an integrated package of interventions, including water supply and sanitation improvements, solid waste management, and drainage improvements in key areas, as well as capacity building and training for the utilities and town planners. The Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation (LVWATSAN) Initiative is a pivotal multi-phase program dedicated to addressing the critical challenges of water supply, sanitation, and environmental management in urban centers situated within the Lake Victoria Basin. As a key East African Community (EAC) initiative, LVWATSAN is coordinated by the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) and implemented by the respective EAC Partner States, including Uganda. The program aims to reverse the growing pollution of Lake Victoria, improve public health, and enhance the living standards of millions of residents by providing sustainable access to clean water and adequate sanitation infrastructure. Key Objectives of the Initiative: LVWATSAN pursues comprehensive objectives to achieve a healthier and more sustainable Lake Victoria Basin: Improve Sustainable Water Supply Infrastructure: To significantly expand and rehabilitate water supply systems in targeted urban centers, ensuring reliable access to safe and clean drinking water for growing populations. Enhance Sanitation and Wastewater Management: To drastically improve sanitation facilities, including sewerage systems, faecal sludge management, and public toilets, thereby reducing the discharge of untreated wastewater into the lake and its tributaries. Strengthen Solid Waste and Storm Water Management: To implement integrated solutions for managing solid waste and improving urban drainage, preventing pollution and improving the urban environment. Build Institutional and Human Resource Capacities: To strengthen the technical and operational capacities of local authorities, water utilities (like NWSC), and communities for the sustainable management of water and sanitation services. Contribute to Environmental Protection: To reduce the negative environmental impact of urbanization on the Lake Victoria Basin, safeguarding its fragile ecosystem and biodiversity. Support Pro-Poor Investments: To ensure that water and sanitation improvements specifically benefit vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, including residents of informal settlements and low-income areas. Phases and Key Achievements: The LVWATSAN Initiative has progressed through several impactful phases: LVWATSAN Phase I (Supported by UN-HABITAT and Dutch Grants): This initial phase targeted 10 secondary urban centers across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. In Uganda, towns included: Nyendo/Ssenyange, Bugemebe, and Kyotera. UN-HABITAT, through its Lake Victoria Region City Development Strategies Programme, also prioritized major cities like Kampala (Uganda), Kisumu (Kenya), and Mwanza (Tanzania) for improvements in sanitation, waste management, and access to safe drinking water. LVWATSAN Phase II (Supported by African Development Bank and African Water Facility): Following Ministerial endorsements in 2008 and 2009, this phase scaled up the initiative to include 15 additional secondary towns across five EAC Partner States. In Uganda, the targeted towns included: Mayuge, Buwama-Kayabwe-Bukakata (cluster), and Ntungamo. Significant infrastructure development occurred, with commissionings of facilities such as the Ntungamo Water Supply and Sanitation System and the Mayuge Water Supply System in 2016. The project also focused on construction of public and institutional toilets and integrated water supply systems in these towns. Key achievements include the drilling of numerous boreholes, rehabilitation/construction of water treatment plants, and the establishment of public water fountains and public toilets across the EAC Partner States. Kampala Water – Lake Victoria WATSAN (KW-LVWATSAN): This specific sub-project focused on addressing the pressing water supply and sanitation challenges within Kampala, implemented primarily by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) with significant funding from development partners like AFD, EIB, KfW, and the EU. It involved extensive upgrades and rehabilitation of existing water treatment, transmission, and distribution systems, including extending services to informal settlements and improving public sanitation facilities. An operational audit covering 2014-2022 was conducted to assess its impact. Towards LVWATSAN Phase III: The initiative continues to evolve, with planning and preparatory work for potential subsequent phases, including “LV WATSAN Phase III,” indicating a sustained commitment to meeting the growing water and sanitation needs of the Lake Victoria Basin in the face of climate change and urbanization. Project Scope and Impact: The LVWATSAN Initiative’s multifaceted approach has led to substantial improvements in urban water supply and sanitation coverage across the Lake Victoria Basin. By focusing on both “hardware” (infrastructure) and “software” (capacity building, hygiene promotion) interventions, the program has directly contributed to: Enhanced Public Health: Reducing the burden of waterborne diseases and improving overall hygiene standards. Environmental Protection: Minimizing pollution loads entering Lake Victoria, contributing to the health of the lake’s ecosystem. Socio-Economic Development: Freeing up community time for productive activities, fostering local economic opportunities, and enhancing the liveability of urban centers. Regional Integration: Strengthening collaboration and shared responsibility among EAC Partner States for managing a critical trans-boundary resource. The ongoing efforts under the LVWATSAN Initiative underscore the Ministry of Water and Environment’s dedication to providing sustainable water and sanitation services and protecting Uganda’s vital natural resources.
The Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP) is a Seven (7) year Government of Uganda (GoU) Project funded with a loan worth US $313 Million by the World Bank. The Project will support GoU through the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) in achieving the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG #6, ‘Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.’ Core Objective: The primary objective of the IWMDP is to improve access to water supply and sanitation (WSS) services, strengthen capacity for integrated water resources management, and enhance the operational performance of water and sanitation service providers in project areas. This aims to ensure sustainable access to clean water and improved sanitation for a significant portion of Uganda’s population, particularly in vulnerable regions. Funding and Implementation: The project is funded by the World Bank, primarily through the International Development Association (IDA), with an initial credit of US $280 million and an additional US $29 million from the IDA 18 Sub-Window for Refugees and Host Communities. Additional co-financing includes KfW (US$25 million) and GoU Counterpart financing (US$8 million). The Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) are the key implementing agencies, responsible for different components of the project. The project commenced in June 2019 and is currently projected to close in January 2026. Project Area and Beneficiaries: The IWMDP targets various areas across Uganda, with a significant focus on improving services in: Small towns and Rural Growth Centers (RGCs): These areas are critical for expanding access beyond major urban centers. Large towns: Especially those with significant populations and growing demand. Districts hosting refugees and host communities: Addressing the increased strain on water and sanitation infrastructure due to large refugee populations. This includes areas like Adjumani, Yumbe, Arua, Moyo (including Obongi), Lamwo, and Kiryandongo. Specific towns and regions mentioned in project documents and news include Busia, Gulu, Mbale, Kumi, Namasale, Koboko, Rakai, Kagadi, Kakumiro, Kaliro, Iganga (Namungalwe), Kyegegwa, and Ruyonza (Rukungiri). The project is designed to benefit hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of Ugandans, including an estimated 1,075,000 people in Adjumani and Mbale alone, with long-term projections to serve even larger populations by 2040. Key Components and Activities: The IWMDP is structured around four main components: Water Supply and Sanitation (WSS) in Small Towns and Rural Growth Centers (RGCs) and Support to Districts Hosting Refugees: Construction and rehabilitation of WSS facilities: This includes new water supply systems, expansion of existing ones, and improvement of sanitation infrastructure. Technical assistance to small towns: Supporting the preparation of fecal sludge management assessments and integrated sanitation plans. Support for refugee and host communities: Providing piped water supply and sanitation services in areas with significant refugee populations. Water Supply and Sanitation (WSS) in Large Towns: Construction and rehabilitation of WSS infrastructure in larger municipalities: This component is primarily implemented by NWSC to enhance services in growing urban centers like Mbale and Gulu, including the development of new water sources, treatment plants, transmission pipelines, and sewerage systems. Development of Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs): Improving urban sanitation by managing wastewater and fecal sludge. Water Resources Management: Strengthening institutional capacity for integrated water resources management (IWRM): This involves developing and implementing water management plans, monitoring water quality and quantity, and promoting sustainable use of water resources. Support for water source protection: Implementing measures to safeguard water sources and their catchments, ensuring long-term sustainability. Project Implementation and Sector Support: Project management and coordination: Ensuring efficient execution, monitoring, and evaluation of project activities. Capacity building: Strengthening the human and institutional capacities of MWE, NWSC, and local governments to manage water resources and deliver services effectively. Environmental and social safeguards: Implementing measures to mitigate any potential negative environmental and social impacts of project activities, ensuring compliance with World Bank and national standards. This includes the development and application of Environmental and Social Management Frameworks (ESMFs) and site-specific Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs)/Environmental and Social Management Plans (ESMPs).
GCF-Wetlands The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is a pivotal financial mechanism under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), dedicated to supporting developing countries in their efforts to limit or reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. In Uganda, the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) is an accredited entity and plays a central role in accessing and managing GCF resources to implement transformative climate action. GCF projects in Uganda are designed to build resilience in communities and ecosystems, promote sustainable land and water management, and foster low-carbon development pathways. These initiatives are crucial for Uganda to achieve its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and sustainable development goals. Key Objectives of GCF Projects in Uganda: GCF projects in Uganda typically focus on a range of strategic objectives aimed at addressing critical climate vulnerabilities and promoting sustainable development: Building Climate Resilience in Vulnerable Communities: To enhance the adaptive capacity of communities, particularly those dependent on natural resources, to cope with climate change impacts such as droughts, floods, and unpredictable weather patterns. Expected Activities: Restoring degraded wetlands and associated catchments; promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices and alternative livelihoods; developing and strengthening early warning systems for climate-related disasters. Enhancing Ecosystem Health and Services: To restore and conserve vital ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests, which provide essential services for climate regulation, water security, and biodiversity. Expected Activities: Large-scale wetland restoration and rehabilitation; sustainable land management practices in catchment areas; promoting reforestation and afforestation initiatives. Promoting Climate-Resilient Water Security: To ensure sustainable access to water resources for communities, agriculture, and livestock, especially in drought-prone regions. Expected Activities: Development and rehabilitation of climate-resilient water infrastructure (e.g., solar-powered boreholes, earth dams); promotion of rainwater harvesting technologies; integrated water resource management. Fostering Low-Carbon Development: To support transitions towards a low-emission economy by promoting sustainable energy solutions and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Expected Activities: Facilitating access to renewable energy technologies (e.g., solar energy for households and communities); supporting sustainable land use practices that reduce emissions. Strengthening Institutional Capacity and Climate Information Systems: To enhance the capacity of national and local institutions to effectively plan, implement, and monitor climate change interventions, and to improve the availability and use of climate information. Expected Activities: Providing technical training and resources to government agencies and local communities; strengthening climate data collection, analysis, and dissemination; integrating climate considerations into national and sub-national development planning. Project Scope Description: GCF projects in Uganda typically involve significant financial grants and technical assistance to support the implementation of large-scale, multi-sectoral interventions. The scope often encompasses: Grant Financing: Direct financial support for project activities, leveraging co-financing from the Government of Uganda and other development partners. Technical Assistance and Capacity Building: Provision of expertise, training, and knowledge transfer to strengthen the technical and institutional capacities of implementing partners and beneficiaries. Community Engagement and Livelihood Support: Direct engagement with vulnerable communities to identify their needs, build their adaptive capacity, and provide alternative sustainable livelihoods. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning: Robust systems for tracking project progress, measuring impacts, and generating lessons learned to inform future climate action. Policy and Regulatory Support: Contributions to the development and implementation of supportive policies and regulatory frameworks that enable effective climate change adaptation and mitigation. GCF projects, such as the “Building Resilient Communities, Wetland Ecosystems and Associated Catchments in Uganda” project, exemplify Uganda’s commitment to tackling climate change through integrated and community-centric approaches, ultimately aiming for a more resilient and sustainable future.
August 8, 2024 – Kabarole District: The Ministry of Water and Environment has of...
Project: Mobilization and Institutional Facilitation of Sanitation (UN-Habitat)...
The Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP) is a Seven (7) y...
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.
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