NWSC expands water infrastructure to meet Kampala’s growing demand

KAMPALA: The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) is undertaking a series of infrastructure projects aimed at expanding water and sanitation services in Kampala and the wider metropolitan area as demand continues to rise due to rapid urban growth.

Kampala Water General Manager Eng. Mahmood Lutaaya said the utility has invested in major projects over the past two decades to improve water production, transmission, storage capacity, metering systems and sanitation services.

Speaking during a stakeholder engagement, Eng. Lutaaya said the interventions are aimed at addressing challenges caused by the city’s expanding population and increasing economic activity.

“Over the years, we have continued to improve our water treatment and transmission infrastructure, increase reservoir capacity, expand prepaid metering and strengthen sanitation facilities to meet the needs of a growing city,” he said.

He noted that while major projects are being implemented, NWSC has also introduced short-term measures such as mini water systems and boreholes in areas experiencing supply challenges.

Among the ongoing investments is Package 2B of the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Water Supply Network  Project, which involves laying nearly 70 kilometres of pipelines, construction of reservoirs and installation of booster stations.

The  project, which started last year, is expected to be completed in August 2027. However, Eng. Lutaaya said some sections will be completed earlier, including a section designed to convey water from Bombo towards Kassanda, which is expected to be commissioned by December.

He said most of the pipes required for the first phase of the project have already been delivered, with construction works progressing as planned.

However, he highlighted challenges including traffic congestion and difficulties associated with carrying out works along busy city roads.

According to Eng. Lutaaya, the project will significantly improve water reliability in areas currently experiencing supply pressure once completed.

ScheduleTrash Pickup

He added that NWSC is also planning additional upgrades in rapidly developing parts of Kampala, where increased commercial and residential activity has put pressure on existing distribution networks.

“Some areas, especially within the Central Business District and other fast-growing suburbs, require upgrades because the existing smaller distribution pipes can no longer adequately support the rising demand,” he explained.

The utility is also planning interventions in southern Kampala and other areas that continue to experience intermittent water supply.

Eng. Lutaaya further revealed plans to expand production capacity at Katosi Water Treatment Plant, with the proposed expansion expected to add about 80,000 cubic metres of water per day to the existing supply capacity.

The additional production capacity is expected to support Kampala’s long-term water needs and cater for continued growth across the metropolitan area.

On sanitation, he said NWSC is implementing projects to improve sewerage infrastructure through upgrades of sewer networks and treatment facilities in different catchment areas.

Eng. Lutaaya said the combination of large-scale infrastructure projects, short-term interventions and system upgrades will help create a more reliable and sustainable water and sanitation network for Kampala.

He emphasised that continued investment in water infrastructure is critical to keeping pace with the city’s population growth and supporting economic development.