All set as African Water and Sanitation Association Congress comes to Kampala for third time

February 14, 2025 in Land & Agriculture, Science and Technology by Editor

More than 1,000 delegates from over 40 countries will gather in Kampala in the coming days for the 22nd African Water and Sanitation Association International Congress and Exhibition (AfWASA ICE2025), which opens on February 16.

According to Eng. Dr. Silver Mugisha, AfWASA President and Managing Director of the host – the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), the weeklong congress—returning to Uganda for the third time—will feature 80 sessions covering themes such as water governance, financing, research, technology, and innovation.

“This is the third AfWASA Congress in Uganda, with previous editions held in 2010 and 2020. The event will take place at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, which offers excellent facilities,” he said.

AfWASA, in which Uganda actively participates through NWSC, serves as a platform for knowledge exchange on global advancements in water supply and innovation.

Speaking to the press on February 13, Dr. Mugisha noted that such networks have provided NWSC with valuable insights contributing to its growth.

One of the key highlights of the congress will be NWSC’s presentation on Source Protection and Catchment Management, showcasing efforts to safeguard water sources. “All our projects incorporate catchment protection for sustainability, with initiatives in Arua, Mbale, Masaka, Kampala, Gulu, and soon Adjumani,” Mugisha explained.

The congress will also address climate change resilience and adaptation. NWSC has reinforced infrastructure in flood-prone areas, such as the Karuma-Gulu pipeline, designed to withstand extreme weather. Additionally, pipelines along the Gaba-Kampala route have been elevated to prevent flood-related disruptions.

A significant initiative to be launched at the congress is the African Water and Sanitation Academy (AWASA), which will be hosted in Uganda. The academy will provide leadership development and change management training for water professionals across Africa. In September 2024, the Government of Uganda and AfWASA signed a host agreement for AWASA, solidifying Uganda’s role as a regional hub for water and sanitation management.

Dr. Mugisha emphasized the congress’s importance for Uganda. “Beyond the economic benefits from international visitors, the event will enhance Uganda’s tourism potential. Many attendees are drawn by Uganda’s climate, natural beauty, and hospitality. Additionally, a vibrant exhibition will showcase various water technologies,” he said.

He also highlighted investment opportunities. “Some exhibitors may explore manufacturing essential water sector components locally, further strengthening Uganda’s infrastructure development.”

During the congress, NWSC will showcase innovations, including the Water for All agenda and advanced technologies used in Uganda. Dr. Mugisha encouraged Ugandans to attend and visit the event’s website for registration details. “It is a paid event, with an option to register and pay on-site,” he noted.

Uganda’s commitment to environmental conservation will also be in focus. Dr. Mugisha highlighted the Young Water Professionals initiative, which has planted one million trees, and NWSC’s partnerships with organizations like Rotary in wetland restoration projects. “We are actively working on River Rwizi catchment protection and other initiatives to ensure long-term water security,” he said.