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
By MWE (Communications Unit)–Mwanza, Tanzania.
Amudat, Uganda – 19 May 2026 Officials led by Eng. Wilson Tabaaro, Regional Manager, Wate...
The Under Secretary Finance and Administration; Ms. Nassuna Catherine officiated at the Entry Meetin...
The Ministers of Water and Environment, the Permanent Secretary and Staff of Ministry of Water and E...
The project is funded by the Adaptation Fund through the Sahara and Sahel Observatory. The overall objective of the project is to increase the resilience of smallholder farmers and pastoralists to climate change risks mainly those related to drought, through the establishment of appropriate early warning systems and implementation of drought adaptation actions in the IGAD region. The project targets to consolidate synergies and adopt innovative and resilient drought management actions from selected IGAD region countries including Djibouti, Kenya, Sudan and Uganda. More specifically, this project is intended to strengthen the drought resilience of smallholder farmers and pastoralists by:Developing and promoting regional investments in early drought warning systems (EWS) and improving the existing ones.Strengthening and improving the capacity of key stakeholders in drought risk management at regional, national and local levels.Facilitating smallholder farmers and pastoralists inputs to undertake innovative adaptation actions that reinforce their resilience to drought.Enhancing knowledge management and information sharing on drought resilience at the considered levels.Project implementation arrangementsThe project is implemented in collaboration with mandated institutions, such as the Department of Meteorology (MWE), the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, and Nabuin Zonal Agriculture Research and Development Institute (ZARDI).DRESSEA Project Area:Moroto (All sub counties), Napak (Ngolereit, Matany, Lopeei, Lotome, and Lokopo), and Nabilatuk (Lorengedwat)Estimated Project Cost: USH 9,236,379,840Project Duration, 4 years, launched in 2021 at national level, now in extension period.Project Coordinator:Name: Dr. Callist Tindimugaya, Commissioner, Water Resources Planning and RegulationMobile Phone: 0772521413Email: Callist.tindimugaya@mwe.go.ugAchievements2 weather stations have been installed in Moroto (Rupa) and Napak (Matany).1 Early Warning Information Center has been renovated and equipped at the Department of Meteorology.Non-Smart Phones and solar radios have been distributed to 115 farmer groups to improve their access to early warning information.Drought Management Plan and Emergency Response Plan has been prepared for Lokere Catchment.115 farmer groups have been trained in drought adaptation measures and provided with seeds and seedlings of drought tolerant crop varieties.4 water harvesting structures have been constructed in Moroto (Lotisan and Tapac), Napak (Lopeei and Lokopo).Soil and water conservation measures have been implemented in Moroto, Napak, and Nabilatuk to improve crop productivity.3 water boreholes have been protected following the guidelines for the protection of groundwater sources.Impact:Early waring information sharing and feedback collection meetingsInnovative soil on farm soil and water conservation techniques in Vegetable growing in Katikekile Sub CountyPerma-gardens in Moroto (Nakonyen and Lotisan)Distribution of seeds in Lokopo Sub County
IntroductionThe Government of Uganda (GOU) has received funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) through the African Development Bank (AfDB) for the development of the Strengthening the Adaptive Capacity and Resilience of Communities in Uganda’s watersheds project (SACRiAC). The Project’s Executing Agency, the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE), is responsible for the overall implementation and management of the Project.The project (SACRiAC) objective is to build adaptive capacity of rural communities and reduce their vulnerability to climate change and improve rural livelihoods and food security through integrated watershed management, climate-resilient infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture.SACRiAC will be implemented in Bukedea, Sironko, Kapchorwa, and Bulambuli districts, within the Awoja catchment downstream of the sub-catchments of Komirya, Sironko, Simu-sisi, Muyembe, and Sipi. It will be implemented, with focus on catchment management and improving rural livelihood.BackgroundUganda’s economy and local communities are vulnerable to climate change and variability as a result of several compounding factors:heavy reliance on natural resources, particularly within the agricultural sector;dependence on rain-fed agriculture;close linkages between agriculture performance and climatic changes – with the gross domestic product (GDP) and inflation rates closely corresponding to seasonal rainfall patterns;high population growth rates – ~3.6% per year – that in combination with high poverty levels reduce capacity to cope with climate hazards;low per capita income;limited financial capacity to fund adaptation measures;weak and inadequate infrastructure;inadequate supply of clean water and sanitation facilities; andinadequate availability of health and medical services.Floods and droughts have the greatest impacts on local communities as well as socio-economic sectors – particularly the agriculture sector. Other predicted socio-economic impacts will result in the reduction of:national security;the life-span and durability of infrastructure;hydropower production;human health; andecosystem integrity, and thus natural capital.Climate change is expected to disproportionately affect vulnerable groups. These include the poor, people living with disability and HIV/AIDS, youth and children – orphans in particular – the elderly, refugees, and marginalized communities.Current and future impacts of climate change, therefore, make adaptation urgent. Without adaptation, the negative effects of climate change will undermine years of development assistance and asset accumulation in Uganda. Effective adaptation planning – in the context of this project and in particular for an increase in intensity and frequency of droughts, floods, and severe storms requires:improved climate monitoring and early warning systems;reduced vulnerability of people, livelihoods, physical assets, and watersheds to the adverse effects of climate change, through improved storage and reduced land degradation; andstrengthening institutional capacities for effective climate change Adaptation.
Nexus GreenThe Nexus Green Solar-Powered Water Supply and Irrigation Systems Project is a major initiative commissioned by the Government of Uganda (GoU) through the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE). It involves Nexus Green Ltd (UK) as the contractor and is funded by UK Export Finance. This project aims to significantly enhance water access for domestic use and irrigation across Uganda.Core Objective:The core objective of the Nexus Green project is to increase water supply coverage countrywide for domestic use and support irrigation for improved agricultural productivity. By utilizing solar energy to power water systems, the project addresses water scarcity, mitigates drought-induced food insecurity, and contributes to Uganda’s climate resilience and food security.Funding and Implementation:Funding: Primarily financed by UK Export Finance, facilitated through directives from the President of Uganda to the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development and MWE.Implementing Agencies: The Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) is the lead government agency, overseeing the project. Nexus Green Ltd (UK) is the contracted company responsible for the design, supply, manufacture, installation, and overall implementation of the solar water systems.Duration: The project began around 2021 and is anticipated to be completed by 2024, running over approximately three years. It involves the development of a large number of sites (initially aimed for 687, with some reports mentioning up to 920).Project Area and Beneficiaries:The project is implemented countrywide across Uganda, targeting numerous districts to increase water supply coverage. While specific districts for all 600+ sites are not exhaustively listed in general overviews, individual project sites mentioned include Ntenjeru sub-county (Mukono district) and Kigezi High School.The project aims to benefit millions of Ugandans, particularly:Rural communities and farmers: By providing water for irrigation to boost agricultural production, which is a main source of income and employment for a significant portion of the population.Women and youth: These groups are often disproportionately burdened with water collection and are expected to benefit economically from increased agricultural output.Communities affected by water scarcity and drought: Directly addressing water access challenges.Key Components and Activities:The project focuses on the comprehensive development and deployment of solar-powered water systems, typically involving:Site Assessment and Design:Identifying suitable locations for water sources and system installation.Designing integrated water supply systems, including source development, transmission pipelines, and distribution networks.Solar-Powered Pumping Infrastructure:Installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to generate electricity.Deployment of water pumps (submersible, booster, etc.) powered by solar energy for water abstraction.Construction of storage tanks for collected water.Water Distribution and Irrigation Networks:Setting up distribution networks to deliver water for domestic use.Constructing on-farm irrigation networks to support high-value crop cultivation.Turnkey Solution and Support:Nexus Green provides a full turnkey solution, covering procurement, installation, commissioning, and initial maintenance.Community engagement and training: Ensuring proper operation, maintenance, and safeguarding of the new water systems by local communities.Quality Assurance and Monitoring:Rigorous inspection and supervision of construction activities to ensure conformity to standards and quality control.Ongoing monitoring of system performance.
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.
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The project is funded by the Adaptation Fund through the Sahara and Sahel Observatory. The overall objective of the project is to increase the resilience of smallholder farmers and pastoralists to climate change risks mainly those related to drought, through the establishment of appropriate early warning systems and implementation of drought adaptation actions in the IGAD region. The project targets to consolidate synergies and adopt innovative and resilient drought management actions from selected IGAD region countries including Djibouti, Kenya, Sudan and Uganda. More specifically, this project is intended to strengthen the drought resilience of smallholder farmers and pastoralists by:Developing and promoting regional investments in early drought warning systems (EWS) and improving the existing ones.Strengthening and improving the capacity of key stakeholders in drought risk management at regional, national and local levels.Facilitating smallholder farmers and pastoralists inputs to undertake innovative adaptation actions that reinforce their resilience to drought.Enhancing knowledge management and information sharing on drought resilience at the considered levels.Project implementation arrangementsThe project is implemented in collaboration with mandated institutions, such as the Department of Meteorology (MWE), the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, and Nabuin Zonal Agriculture Research and Development Institute (ZARDI).DRESSEA Project Area:Moroto (All sub counties), Napak (Ngolereit, Matany, Lopeei, Lotome, and Lokopo), and Nabilatuk (Lorengedwat)Estimated Project Cost: USH 9,236,379,840Project Duration, 4 years, launched in 2021 at national level, now in extension period.Project Coordinator:Name: Dr. Callist Tindimugaya, Commissioner, Water Resources Planning and RegulationMobile Phone: 0772521413Email: Callist.tindimugaya@mwe.go.ugAchievements2 weather stations have been installed in Moroto (Rupa) and Napak (Matany).1 Early Warning Information Center has been renovated and equipped at the Department of Meteorology.Non-Smart Phones and solar radios have been distributed to 115 farmer groups to improve their access to early warning information.Drought Management Plan and Emergency Response Plan has been prepared for Lokere Catchment.115 farmer groups have been trained in drought adaptation measures and provided with seeds and seedlings of drought tolerant crop varieties.4 water harvesting structures have been constructed in Moroto (Lotisan and Tapac), Napak (Lopeei and Lokopo).Soil and water conservation measures have been implemented in Moroto, Napak, and Nabilatuk to improve crop productivity.3 water boreholes have been protected following the guidelines for the protection of groundwater sources.Impact:Early waring information sharing and feedback collection meetingsInnovative soil on farm soil and water conservation techniques in Vegetable growing in Katikekile Sub CountyPerma-gardens in Moroto (Nakonyen and Lotisan)Distribution of seeds in Lokopo Sub County
IntroductionThe Government of Uganda (GOU) has received funding from the Global...
Nexus GreenThe Nexus Green Solar-Powered Water Supply and Irrigation Systems Pro...
The Strategic Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Project (STWSSP), managed under...
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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