Uganda will host the 22nd African Water and Sanitation Association International Congress and Exhibition (AfWASA ICE2025), attracting over 1,000 delegates from more than 40 countries.
The weeklong event will take place from February 16 to February 20, 2025, at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo. AfWASA President and National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) Managing Director, Eng. Dr. Silver Mugisha, confirmed the registrations and highlighted Uganda’s role in global water management.
“This is the third AfWASA Congress in Uganda. The first was in 2010, the second in 2020, and now we are hosting another one. I have personally visited the Congress site, and the setup is excellent,” Dr. Mugisha said.
Focus on Water Innovation and Climate Resilience
The congress will feature 80 sessions covering water governance, financing, research, technology, and innovation. It will also address climate change resilience, with NWSC showcasing projects designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
NWSC will present a case study on Source Protection and Catchment Management, highlighting efforts to safeguard water sources. “Every project we undertake incorporates catchment protection measures to ensure sustainability. We have implemented projects in Arua, Mbale, Masaka, Kampala, Gulu, and soon in Adjumani,” Dr. Mugisha said.
He also noted NWSC’s infrastructure improvements in flood-prone areas, including the reinforced Karuma-Gulu pipeline and elevated pipelines along the Gaba-Kampala route to prevent disruptions caused by flooding.
Launch of African Water and Sanitation Academy
One of the key initiatives 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 and change management training for water professionals across Africa.
The Ugandan government and AfWASA signed a host agreement for AWASA in September 2024, solidifying Uganda’s position as a hub for water and sanitation management.
Boost for Uganda’s Economy and Tourism
Dr. Mugisha emphasized the congress’s economic and tourism benefits. “Besides the financial boost from international visitors, it will enhance Uganda’s tourism potential. Many attendees are drawn to Uganda for its climate, natural beauty, and hospitality,” he said.
The event will also feature an exhibition showcasing water sector technologies. “Some exhibitors may take interest in investing in Uganda to manufacture essential water sector components locally, which would further enhance our infrastructure development,” Dr. Mugisha added.
NWSC will exhibit its innovations, including the Water for All agenda and advanced technologies in water management. He encouraged Ugandans to attend, noting that registration is available online and on-site.
Commitment to Environmental Conservation
Dr. Mugisha reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to environmental conservation, highlighting NWSC’s partnerships in wetland restoration and tree-planting initiatives. “We are actively working on River Rwizi catchment protection, among other initiatives, to ensure long-term water security,” he noted.
The congress will bring together global experts, policymakers, and investors, positioning Uganda at the center of Africa’s water and sanitation advancements.
