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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 Under Secretary Finance and Administration; Ms. Nassuna Catherine represented the Permanent Secr...
The Ministry of Water and Environment through its Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department with...
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Water and Environment; Dr. Alfred Okot Okidi hosted a del...
Uganda Secures $6.3M Grant to Modernize Weather Infrastructure and Early Warning SystemsKAMPALA – Th...
IntroductionThe 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 strengthenedOutcome 2: Climate change vulnerability of communities living around degraded wetlands and forests is decreased through the implementation of EbA interventionsOutcome 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 changeProject intervention sites:This project is being implemented in four intervention areas-ecosystemsR 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)
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 Water Management and Development Project (WMDP) – Component 2.2 was a vital initiative undertaken by the Ministry of Water and Environment, designed to address pressing water supply and sanitation challenges in eight rapidly growing towns across Uganda. By focusing on both new infrastructure development and the rehabilitation and expansion of existing systems, WMDP significantly improved access to clean water and sanitation services, enhanced public health, and contributed to the long-term sustainability of water resources in these critical urban centers.SUMMARY OF THE RAP REPORT FOR KALIRO NAMUNGALWEThe Government of Uganda secured financing from the International Development Association (The World Bank) to implement the Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP). The Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP) is a follow on from the Water Management and Development Project (WMDP) and is being implemented by Ministry of Water and Environment, Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Department (Small Towns and Rural Growth Centres) together with National Water & Sewerage Corporation (large towns). The project will focus on; improving access to water supply and sanitation services in urban, small town and rural areas including refugee hosting communities in the country; improving water resources management; and Institutional strengthening to ensure improved service delivery and sustainable water resources management in Uganda. One of the beneficiaries under IWMDP is Kaliro-Namungalwe cluster towns located in Iganga & Kaliro Districts respectively. The benefiting centers are; towns of Iganga and Kaliro and rural growth centers and subcounties of Nakalama, Namungalwe, Nambale and Nabitende in Iganga District, whereas the benefiting trading centres in Kaliro district include Silver ward, Kigulu village, Bugumba, Nabikote, Namungalwe, Nasuti, Nambale, Naibiri and Nabitende.The Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) has been developed for Kaliro-Namungalwe Town Water Supply and Sanitation System and explores the resettlement strategies including entitlement matrix and implementation arrangements that would mitigate adverse socio-economic impacts and grievances; and the strategies to mitigate adverse impacts and grievances. SUMMARY OF THE ESIA REPORT FOR NAMASALEThe Government of Uganda secured financing from the International Development Association (The World Bank) to implement the Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP). The Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP) is a follow on from the Water Management and Development Project (WMDP) and is being implemented by Ministry of Water and Environment, Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Department (Small Towns and Rural Growth Centres) together with National Water & Sewerage Corporation (large towns). The project will focus on; improving access to water supply and sanitation services in urban, small town and rural areas including refugee hosting communities in the country; improving water resources management; and Institutional strengthening to ensure improved service delivery and sustainable water resources management in Uganda. One of the beneficiaries under IWMDP is Namasale town in Amolatar District. The benefiting centers are; parishes of Kayago, Wabinua and Aweipeko with 20 villages.The Environment and Social Impact assessment (ESIA) has been developed for Namasale Town Water Supply and Sanitation System and explores the likely impacts of the proposed project on the biophysical and social-economic environment hence ensuring promotion of environmental and social sustainability through identifying and implementing appropriate mitigation measures proposed.KALIRO-NAMUNGALWE ESIA FINAL APPROVED BY WORLD BANKThe Government of Uganda secured financing from the International Development Association (The World Bank) to implement the Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP). The Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP) is a follow on from the Water Management and Development Project (WMDP) is being implemented by Ministry of Water and Environment, Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Department (Small Towns and Rural Growth Centres) together with National Water & Sewerage Corporation (large towns). The project will focus on; improving access to water supply and sanitation services in urban, small town and rural areas including refugee hosting communities in the country; improving water resources management; and Institutional strengthening to ensure improved service delivery and sustainable water resources management in Uganda. One of the beneficiaries under IWMDP is Kaliro-Namungalwe cluster towns located in Iganga & Kaliro District. The benefiting centers are; towns of Iganga and Kaliro and rural growth centers and subcounties of Nakalama, Namungalwe, Nambale and Nabitende in Iganga District, whereas the benefiting trading centres in Kaliro district include Silver ward, Kigulu village, Bugumba, Nabikote, Namungalwe, Nasuti, Nambale, Naibiri and Nabitende.The Environment and Social Impact assessment (ESIA) has been developed for Kaliro-Namungalwe Town Water Supply and Sanitation System and explores the likely impacts of the proposed project on the biophysical and social-economic environment hence ensuring promotion of environmental and social sustainability through identifying and implementing appropriate mitigation measures proposed.FINAL RESETTLEMENT PLAN FOR NAMASALE TOWN WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION SYSTEM IN AMOLATAR DISTRICTThe Government of Uganda secured financing from the International Development Association (The World Bank) to implement the Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP). The proposed Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP) is a follow on from the Water Management and Development Project (WMDP) and will be implemented by Ministry of Water and Environment, Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Department (Small Towns and Rural Growth Centres) together with National Water & Sewerage Corporation (large towns). The project will focus on; improving access to water supply and sanitation services in urban, small town and rural areas including refugee hosting communities in the country; improving water resources management; and Institutional strengthening to ensure improved service delivery and sustainable water resources management in Uganda. The Final Resettlement Plan for Namasale Town Water Supply and Sanitation System in Amolatar District has been finalised and is now ready for use.The RAP will guide the implementation of the corrective construction works for Namasale small towns’ water supply and sanitation systems project.This Report also provides guidelines to stakeholders participating in the mitigation, including rehabilitation/resettlement operations in order to ensure that the project affected persons (PAPs) are not impoverished by the adverse social impacts of the project. Mbale & Small Towns (Busolwe-Kadama-Tirinyi-Kibuku-Butaleja-Budaka) ESIA Final Approved by RSAUganda Government has requested funds from the World Bank for implementing the Uganda Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP). The IWMDP was developed under the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) as an integrated water resource management and development project with objectives of improving integrated water resources planning, management and development; and access to water and sanitation services in priority urban areas and rural growth centers. It is believed that the project will contribute to higher level goals of sustaining natural resources, improving service delivery,and increasing economic productivity. Part of the IWMDP funds is intended to be applied towards Water Supply and Sanitation Project in Mbale NWSC service area and neighbouring small towns and rural growth centres of Busolwe, Kadama, Tirinyi, Kibuku, Butaleja and Budaka.National Water & Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) is the implementing agency in Mbale Municipality while MWE through the Directorate of Water Development (DWD) is directly in charge with the small towns.Piped water will be extended from the NWSC Mbale Service Area to the neighbouring small towns and rural growth centres. The NWSC was established as a government parastatal organisation in 1972 to develop, operate, and maintain water supply and sewerage services in urban areas of Uganda.Final ESMF IWMDP-March 2018-Approved by Bank’s RSAThe proposed Integrated Water Resources Management and Development Project (IWMDP-P163782) is a follow-on from the Water Management and Development Project (WMDP-P123204) and will be implemented by the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Water and Environment. The proposed project’s development objective (PDO) is to improve access to water supply and sanitation services, and strengthen the capacity for water resources management in project targeted areas.
Limnology of L. VictoriaThe Integrated Water Quality/Limnology Study for Lake Victoria is a consultancy contract between the Lake Victoria Environment Management Project (LVEMP) and COWI Consulting Engineers and Planners AS, in association with DHI Water and Environment. The contract was signed on 23 June 2000 in Nairobi, and is financed by credits from the International Development Association (IDA) and grants from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to the three countries, Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda.Synthesis Report of LVEMPLake Victoria is an international waterbody that offers the riparian communities a large number of extremely important environmental services. Over the past four decades or so, the lake has come under increasing and considerable pressure from a variety of interlinked human activities such as overfishing, species introductions, industrial pollution, eutrophication, and sedimentation. The lake provides various resources to its riparian
IntroductionThe 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 strengthenedOutcome 2: Climate change vulnerability of communities living around degraded wetlands and forests is decreased through the implementation of EbA interventionsOutcome 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 changeProject intervention sites:This project is being implemented in four intervention areas-ecosystemsR 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)
Project: Mobilization and Institutional Facilitation of Sanitation (UN-Habitat)L...
The Water Management and Development Project (WMDP) – Component 2.2 was a vital...
Limnology of L. VictoriaThe Integrated Water Quality/Limnology Study for Lake Vi...
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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