Signing of MOU on Water and Sanitation Services in Refugee Settlements and Host Communities

Today June 4, 2025 at Sheraton Hotel-Kampala, a significant milestone has been achieved in the provision of water and sanitation services in refugee settlements and host communities in Northern Uganda with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE),Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
 and Umbrella of Water and Sanitation-North  (UWS-N)
 
 The event was officiated by MWE PS (Dr.Alfred Okot Okidi), Asst. Comm P&D (Eng. Richard Matua and Manager UWS-North (Mr. Martin Wamalwa) and other stakeholders who witnessed the signing of the MOU include German Cooperation, GIZ, ADA and KfW.
 The MoU formalizes the transition of selected water supply systems from emergency humanitarian response frameworks to sustainable utility-based management, ensuring reliable and equitable water services for both refugee and host communities.
 
 Highlights of the MoU:
- Transition to Sustainable Management. The MoU outlines a collaborative framework for transitioning water supply systems from emergency management to sustainable utility-based management.
- Equitable Water Services. Ensures reliable and equitable water services for both host and refugee communities, promoting inclusivity and sustainability.
- ⁠Collaboration and Partnership. Strengthens partnerships between government agencies, international organizations, and sector stakeholders to enhance water and sanitation services in refugee settlements and host communities.

Expected Outcomes:
- Improved access to clean water and sanitation services for refugees and host communities.
- Enhanced sustainability of water supply systems through utility-based management.
- Strengthened collaboration and coordination among stakeholders in the water and sanitation sector. It underscores the commitment of the signatory parties to work together towards achieving equitable and reliable water services, ultimately contributing to the well-being and dignity of both refugee and host community members.