The Ministry of Water and Environment has reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to expanding access to clean and safe water while promoting cooperation over shared water resources, as the country continues to modernize its water systems and strengthen transboundary water governance.
Speaking during Spotlight Uganda hosted by Sanyuka Television on Wednesday under the theme “Access to Clean and Safe Water,” Eng. Sowedi Sewagudde, Commissioner for International & Transboundary Water Affairs at the Ministry of Water and Environment, highlighted the significant strides Uganda has made in reforming and upgrading its water infrastructure.
Sewagudde noted that the government has undertaken extensive reforms aimed at dismantling outdated water systems that were established before independence and replacing them with modern, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure.
“Where we are now, we have made new connections that removed systems that were put in place before independence. These improvements are critical in ensuring reliable access to clean and safe water for our growing population,” he said.
Sewagude emphasized that water is not only a basic human necessity but also a strategic resource that must be managed responsibly, particularly where it is shared across national borders. Sewagudde underscored Uganda’s commitment to regional cooperation in managing shared water bodies such as rivers and lakes.
“We hope that instead of water causing conflict, we can work together and achieve positive outcomes from it,” he said
Sewagude explained that Uganda continues to engage with neighboring countries and regional bodies to promote dialogue, joint planning, and sustainable utilization of shared water resources.
These efforts, he said, are essential in addressing challenges such as climate change, population growth, and increasing water demand.