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 Ministers of Water and Environment, the Permanent Secretary and Staf...
NAIROBI-Uganda has taken a front-row seat in shaping the future of environmental conservation and c...
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Water and Environment; Dr. Alfred Okot Okidi represented...
FOREST LANDSCAPE RESTORATION (FLR) IMPLEMENTATION HUB PROJECT LAUNCHEDThe Permanent Secretary launch...
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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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).
European Green Deal – focused and strategic action to international response to forest on environmental issues.MoU for a Forest Partnership was signed on 8th November 2022 at COP27 (ASham el Sheikh).This was to ensure that Uganda’s forests continue to meet their social, economic and environmental benefits.The overall aim is to enhance the role of Ugandan forests in sustainable and inclusive national development, and address challenges related to deforestation, climate change and biodiversity loss.Specifically contributing to;Increasing the area of protected, restored or sustainably managed forestsIncreasing the number of forest related decent jobsReducing of the annual rate of deforestation of natural forestsLooking for ways to facilitate trade
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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 Integrated Water Management and Development Project (IWMDP) is a Seven (7) y...
European Green Deal – focused and strategic action to international response to...
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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