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
The Ministry of Water and Environment as the Lead Instituti...
Hon. Maj. Gen. Kahinda Otafiire officially assumed office as Minister of Water and Environment, high...
Mubende, 9th May 2026 The Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) today commissioned and officially...
By MWE (Communications Unit)–Mwanza, Tanzania. The Government of Uganda has called upon Develop...
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 ObjectivesThe 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 FundingThe 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 BenefitsThe 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.
The EU-TF (SPRS-NU) Support Programme to the Refugee Settlements and Host Communities in Northern Uganda is a multifaceted initiative established under the European Union Emergency Trust Fund for Africa. Its primary objective is to address the humanitarian and developmental needs of South Sudanese refugees and their host communities in Northern Uganda, particularly in response to the significant influx of refugees since July 2016. The project aims to move beyond emergency aid towards more sustainable solutions, fostering stability and reducing the risk of conflict between refugee and host populations.Overall Objective and Specific AimsThe overarching objective of SPRS-NU is to reduce the risk of violent conflict between host communities and refugees in the refugee-hosting districts of Northern Uganda. More specifically, the project aims to:Improve food security, nutrition, and livelihoods of both refugee populations and host communities in a sustainable manner, by enhancing local production and fostering economic exchanges.Improve inter-community dialogue at the local level and establish conflict prevention mechanisms to mitigate clashes between or within communities.Improve the level of education and increase medium to long-term economic opportunities for refugees and host communities, especially youth and women, through skills development and entrepreneurship support, contributing to better integration.Ensure sustainable access to safe water and improve environmental sanitation conditions in targeted settlements and host communities.Project ComponentsThe SPRS-NU project is structured around several key components, often implemented by different partners to achieve its comprehensive objectives:Livelihood and Labor Market Relevant Skills Development: Focuses on providing quality skills training, entrepreneurial guidance, and start-up kits for refugees and host communities, with a particular emphasis on youth, women, and girls. This includes vocational training and accreditation of acquired skills.Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) Component: Concentrates on constructing and rehabilitating essential water supply systems (e.g., piped water systems), improving environmental sanitation through the construction of faecal sludge treatment plants, and establishing sustainable operation and maintenance structures for these facilities.Community Dialogue and Conflict Prevention: Aims to facilitate improved relations between refugees and host communities through dialogue mechanisms and the establishment of local conflict prevention initiatives.Basic Services and Education: Supports improved access to essential services like education, recognizing its role in long-term economic opportunities and integration.Key Activities and ProgressWithin the WASH component, the project has specifically targeted 12 settlements, including Alere, Nyumanzi, Maaji II, Olujobo, Ranch I, Ayelo, Maaji III, Pagirinya, Bidibidi Zone V, Eden, Afua, and Ariaze.The project has undertaken a range of activities to achieve its aims:Skills Development: Provision of technical vocational education and training (TVET) and entrepreneurship support, with thousands of beneficiaries receiving quality skills development and start-up kits.WASH Infrastructure: Construction of piped water supply systems and faecal sludge treatment plants, alongside geological and hydrological surveys and drilling of production wells in various settlements (e.g., Alere, Nyumanzi, Maaji II, Ranch I).Feasibility Studies and Designs: Ongoing detailed engineering designs for water and sanitation infrastructure in several settlements.Inter-Community Dialogue: Facilitating platforms for dialogue and conflict prevention.Mid-term Reviews: Periodic reviews (e.g., November 2023) assess project performance, coherence, efficiency, effectiveness, impact, and sustainability, providing insights for continuous improvement and learning.Impact and LegacyThe EU-TF (SPRS-NU) project has played a crucial role in addressing the complex challenges arising from large refugee populations in Northern Uganda. By focusing on both immediate needs and long-term development, it contributes significantly to:Enhanced Livelihoods: Equipping refugees and host communities with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, thereby increasing their economic opportunities and reducing reliance on subsistence agriculture.Improved Social Cohesion: Mitigating potential conflicts by fostering better understanding and shared benefits between refugee and host communities.Access to Essential Services: Providing sustainable access to safe water and improved sanitation, which are fundamental for public health and environmental well-being.Sustainable Development: Laying a foundation for more resilient and self-reliant communities, aligning with Uganda’s Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) and broader development goals.While some components of the project have concluded their initial phases, the overall program’s integrated approach and its focus on sustainable solutions continue to inform and shape future interventions in refugee-hosting areas of Uganda.
Project summary Between 2016 and 2017, Uganda achieved a major climate milestone by reducing over 8 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through targeted efforts to combat deforestation. These results were reported in Uganda’s Biennial Update Report (BUR) and validated through the UNFCCC’s technical assessment and analysis processes. At the 43rd Meeting of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board (27–30 October 2025, Songdo, Republic of Korea), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will present the project “Uganda REDD+ Results-Based Payment for Emission Reductions (2016–2017)”. The proposal seeks a USD 31 million GCF grant to reward Uganda’s verified emission reductions and support continued efforts to halt deforestation and forest degradation. This is the first REDD+ Results-Based Payment project in Africa to be presented to the GCF Board, positioning Uganda as a regional leader in climate mitigation and forest conservation.Forests under pressure Uganda’s forests are facing increasing threats from agricultural and settlement expansion, grazing, and unsustainable wood harvesting for charcoal and timber. These proximate drivers are underpinned by broader socio-economic factors, including, limited economic alternatives, weak governance, insecure land tenure, and rapid population growth.Agricultural conversion for commodities, such as cassava and cattle, is responsible for over 90 percent of forest loss.These pressures are eroding vital ecosystems and accelerating emissions, underscoring the urgent needfor policies and measures that both sustain existing forests and expand forest cover while safeguardingthe rights and livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. This project will build on Uganda’s REDD+Strategy and address the drivers of deforestation and forest degradation through: Sustainable land management and agroforestry; Climate-smart agriculture and sustainable woodfuel production; Community-based pole and timber plantations; and Restoration of natural forests.These strategies aim to relieve pressure on natural ecosystems while promoting carbon removal and long-term sustainability. Agroforestry systems will generate benefits from several sources, including crop yields, timber, firewood, carbon, and watershed protection. Woodlots for both timber and firewood will reduce the distances rural women must walk to collect firewood.
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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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 ObjectivesThe 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 FundingThe 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 BenefitsThe 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.
The EU-TF (SPRS-NU) Support Programme to the Refugee Settlements and Host Commun...
Project summary Between 2016 and 2017, Uganda achieved a major climate milestone...
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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