Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK) 2025 Kicks Off with a Call for Strengthened Partnerships and Sustainable Water Management
"The Ministry must tailor its programs to address the needs of the people if we are to succeed in mitigating challenges such as waterborne diseases," Lumumba stated.
Luzira, Uganda – March 17, 2025 – The 8th Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK) 2025 commenced at the Ministry of Water and Environment Headquarters in Luzira, running from March 17 to March 21, 2025. This year’s theme, "Water and Environment Resources for Enhanced Resilience and Improved Incomes and Livelihoods," underscores the importance of sustainable water and environmental resource management in driving Uganda’s socio-economic development.
A Call for Increased Investment in Water and Environment Sectors
During the opening ceremony, Rt. Hon. Justine Kasule Lumumba, the Minister of General Duties, who represented Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, emphasized the need for the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) to define its roles clearly to attract more resources for effective service delivery.
"The Ministry must tailor its programs to address the needs of the people if we are to succeed in mitigating challenges such as waterborne diseases," Lumumba stated.
She also highlighted the disparities in access to clean and safe water, noting that while 67% of the rural population has access to clean water, urban areas have 73% coverage. She stressed that the government’s goal should be to ensure water availability at the household level, rather than just at community points.
Water as a Driver of Economic Development
Lumumba reiterated that Uganda’s socio-economic development is heavily dependent on the environment, with water being critical for agriculture. She called for more partnerships and collaboration between the government, private sector, and development partners to ensure the sustainable management of water and environmental resources.
"Delivery of water, environment, and climate change services requires partnerships and collaboration between government and stakeholders within Uganda and beyond," she emphasized.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Beatrice Atim Anywar, Minister of State for Environment, underscored the importance of UWEWK as a platform for dialogue on key environmental issues.
"A forum like this provides an opportunity to discuss issues affecting water and environment resources with a view of collectively determining the course of action," Anywar stated.
She highlighted that climate change, deforestation, and water scarcity remain pressing challenges that require urgent policy interventions and community engagement.
The Role of Partnerships in Uganda’s Water and Environment Sector
In his welcome remarks, Alfred Okot Okidi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water and Environment, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to fostering collaborations in tackling water and environmental challenges.
"We have walked this journey with many partners and collaborators, and we continue to call upon other partners to join us as we organize these annual events," Okidi said.
He emphasized that sustained investments, technological innovations, and policy implementation are crucial for improving water and environmental services in Uganda.
The week-long event will feature expert panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, and networking sessions aimed at:
Addressing water security and climate resilience in Uganda.
Strengthening the role of local governments and the private sector in water management.
Exploring innovative solutions to enhance water supply and sanitation.
Promoting sustainable environmental conservation practices.
As Uganda grapples with climate change, water scarcity, and environmental degradation, the 8th Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK) 2025 presents a crucial opportunity for stakeholders to discuss and implement solutions that will ensure sustainable water and environmental management for enhanced resilience, improved livelihoods, and economic growth.
The Ministry of Water and Environment, together with partners and policymakers, remains committed to advancing water and environmental sustainability as a cornerstone for Uganda’s development.
