Water and Sanitation Development Facility-MidWest

INTRODUCTION

The Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) adopted the Water and Sanitation Development Facility model, which consists of deconcentrated entities of the MWE that facilitate the identification, financing, and implementation of piped water supply and sanitation projects in STs and RGCs, in cooperation with the Local Governments and the private sector, and establishing operation and maintenance of constructed water supply and sanitation systems.

The Water and Sanitation Development Facility – Mid West (WSDF–MW) is a regional branch of the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) responsible for developing climate-smart piped water supply systems and sanitation facilities in Small Towns (STs) and Rural Growth Centres (RGCs) across the 17 districts and 2 cities of Mid-Western Uganda. Established effective 1^st July 2026, WSDF–MW is captured in the HCD PIAP under NDPV IV Strategy 2.4: Enhance access to water, sanitation, and hygiene, with the objective of improving population health, safety, and management. Interventions will be made to increase access to inclusive, safe water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) with an emphasis on increasing coverage of improved toilet facilities and handwashing practices.

The project aims to improve access to clean and safe water and enhance urban sanitation in Mid-Western Uganda. Its interventions will include, but not be limited to, planning, designing, constructing, and strengthening systems for long-term sustainability of water for domestic use and improved urban sanitation services.

WSDF–MW’s model emphasizes community ownership, participation of local governments, gender inclusion, environmental sustainability, and capacity building.

1. AREA OF OPERATION

WSDF–MW operates in 17 districts and 2 cities across three sub-regions: Rwenzori, Tooro, and Bunyoro. The region includes the dry cattle corridor, western rift valley areas, mountainous terrain, and the hard-to-reach areas leading to water stress, which require tailored engineering solutions such as gravity-flow systems, solar pumping, and long transmission networks.

Rwenzori

Bundibugyo, Kasese, Ntoroko,

Tooro

FortPortal City, Bunyangabu, Kabarole, Kamwenge, Kitagwenda, Kyegegwa, Kyenjojo

Bunyoro

Hoima City, Buliisa, Hoima, Kagadi, Kakumiro, Kibaale, Kikuube, Kiryandongo, Masindi

2. WHAT WE DO

WSDF–MW implements comprehensive water and sanitation development services, which include engineering design, construction, community engagement, and sustainability strengthening. The core areas include:

ü Design and construction of piped water supply systems, including intakes, treatment plants, pumping stations, reservoirs, transmission pipelines, and distribution networks.

ü Construction of public and institutional sanitation facilities, such as modern public toilets, school latrines, and market sanitation systems.

ü Development of Faecal Sludge Treatment Plants (FSTPs) enabling safe management of waste.

ü Implementation of hygiene and sanitation campaigns, including behaviour change communication.

ü Capacity Building for Water Boards, Utility Operators, and Local Governments.

ü Environmental and social safeguards, including climate considerations and community engagement.