Aisha Sekindi, the Minister of State for Water, has passionately called upon development partners and the global community to support Uganda’s ambitious goal of achieving universal water access by 2030.
During her address at the prestigious International Water Association (IWA) World Water Congress and Exhibition, Minister Sekindi underscored the pressing need for enhanced funding to expand water services, especially in rural regions where clean water remains scarce.
Despite progress, Minister Sekindi noted that the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) currently provides water services to 68% of rural and 72% of urban areas. With Uganda’s population growing rapidly, she emphasized the necessity for additional financial resources to meet the increasing demand for clean water.
To tackle this issue, Minister Sekindi disclosed that she has proposed to President Yoweri Museveni a plan for increased investment in water infrastructure, aiming to ensure every village has a dependable water source.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to achieving universal water access by 2030, Minister Sekindi aligned these efforts with the National Development Plan III (NDPIII) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Minister Lauds Dr. Rose Kaggwa’s Leadership
The Minister also highlighted the significant role of women in achieving water access goals, citing Dr. Rose Christine Kaggwa, Senior Director at the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), who was recently elected as IWA Senior Vice President. With 32 years of experience, Dr. Kaggwa is a strong advocate for capacity development and women’s empowerment within the sector. Her leadership has notably increased women’s representation in the global water sector, serving as an inspiration to future generations.
Dr. Kaggwa’s election underscores Uganda’s dedication to empowering women and advancing leadership in the water sector. Her extensive experience, particularly her leadership of NWSC’s consultancy division, which partners with nations worldwide, is expected to be instrumental in achieving universal clean water access.
Minister Sekindi stressed the importance of women like Dr. Kaggwa in overcoming the challenges that women leaders face, especially in regions where cultural and religious barriers restrict their opportunities. She called for greater empowerment and representation of women in the water sector, acknowledging their crucial role in ensuring universal access to clean water.
The Minister also extended her congratulations to Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha, Managing Director of NWSC, who received the Outstanding Contribution to Water Management & Science award from IWA, recognizing his exceptional contributions in the global arena of water management and science.
Dr. Mugisha’s leadership has transformed NWSC into a global model for water utilities, promoting best practices in water management and sanitation.
This award is the highest honor bestowed upon an IWA member.
