Uganda has secured €85 million (UGX 340 billion) from France to improve water infrastructure and urban development in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA). Finance Minister Matia Kasaija announced the funding on Wednesday, following the signing of loan agreements with Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Regional Director Jean-François Arnal at the Ministry of Finance.
Kasaija acknowledged the pressure on Kampala’s water services due to rapid urbanization and industrial growth. “Water supply services in Kampala and surrounding areas have been constrained,” he said.
Boosting Water Supply and Urban Infrastructure
Of the total funding, €45 million (UGX 180 billion) will support the second phase of the Kampala Water Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project. This will expand the water supply network, benefiting an additional one million people. The project will also install 2,600 prepaid meters in informal settlements.
“This funding will enable us to increase coverage of the intervention, develop the downstream part of the water supply network, and enhance access to safe water for the residents of GKMA,” Kasaija said. He reiterated Uganda’s commitment to achieving 100% piped water access by 2040.
The remaining €40 million (UGX 160 billion) will fund the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Program. This initiative will strengthen the Ministry of Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs and the Kampala Capital City Authority in delivering coordinated infrastructure and services.
Ensuring Accountability and Sustainability
Kasaija pledged transparency in utilizing the funds. “We will ensure that the funds are properly and exclusively utilized by the agencies for the activities earmarked,” he said, adding that regular progress reports would be provided to development partners.
Minister of State for Environment Beatrice Anywar Atim emphasized the need for proper water distribution. “We have water, but how do we make sure it reaches the end-users?” she asked.
Atim also urged Ugandans to protect water sources by avoiding pollution and encroachment. “Our water source is wealth that must be protected by all Ugandans,” she said. “People should stop tampering with the catchment area of our water sources, including Lake Victoria.”
France Reaffirms Support for Uganda
French Ambassador to Uganda, Xavier Sticker, reaffirmed France’s commitment to Uganda’s water sector. “This project is a testament to the enduring and strong friendship and cooperation between our two countries,” he said.
AFD Regional Director Arnal noted that over €400 million in projects were ongoing, with another €300 million in the pipeline. He emphasized the importance of climate-resilient urban infrastructure. “The co-financing from AFD will prioritize investments that build the resilience of cities against climate change effects,” he said.
Expanding Water Supply to Underserved Areas
National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) Managing Director Eng. Dr. Silver Mugisha outlined plans to increase Kampala’s daily water production from 160 million liters to 240 million liters.
“This project will ensure that whoever is not getting water, especially in the northeastern part of Kampala, will get sufficient supply,” he said.
The project, executed by French firm Sogea Satom and supervised by Artelia and Gauff Consultants Uganda Limited, began on February 1, 2025. It is expected to be completed by August 1, 2027, benefiting over three million people in Kira, Kasangati, Kanyanya, Gayaza Road, and Mutungo.
Since 2010, AFD has provided €270 million (UGX 1.08 trillion) for the Kampala Water Lake Victoria Sanitation Project, which aims to improve access to clean water and sanitation, particularly in informal settlements.
