Hoima is among the three new cities in Uganda where the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has begun an extensive feasibility study to overhaul the water and sanitation facilities.
Dr Silver Mugisha, the NWSC’s Managing Director (MD), says besides Hoima, the initiative will also benefit Fort Portal and Lira cities with the aim to not only serve these cities but also to benefit neighbouring towns by enhancing crucial water and sanitation infrastructure.
He says supported by a grant from the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the initiative aims at improving living conditions in the country’s rapidly expanding regions.
The MD reveals that this vital project will cover costs for consultancy services required for the feasibility study adding that this step is key to advancing the water and sanitation infrastructure in the targeted cities.
Dr Mugisha disclosed the financial details of the project noting a contract of 1,099,823.5 Euros (approx. Shs4.54b) with the Seurca and Artelia Consortium and Warner Consultants Ltd as the sub-contractors who are responsible for conducting a comprehensive feasibility studies for both water and sewerage infrastructure that will benefit more than 1,050,000 inhabitants.
The comprehensive plan includes building a standard water treatment plant, rehabilitating and expanding existing sewage networks, and improving water and sanitation services for economically disadvantaged communities.
The initiative is a result of such challenges as limited sewer network coverage and reduced efficiency of current water supply systems with Hoima having unreliable ground water sources while Fort Portal experiencing specific of compromised water quality in Fort Portal’s River Mpanga.
The consultancy phase that is scheduled to last for 13 months from February 2024 to February 2025 is a pivotal move towards resolving enduring water supply issues in Hoima, Fort Portal and Lira cities, according to Dr Mugisha.
He urged the contracted entities to deliver efficient and cost-effective services, reaffirming the Corporation’s dedication to stabilising the water supply in the three urban areas.
Mr Christopher Lacaring from the Seureca and Artelia Consortium, committed to meeting the project deadlines and budget, underscoring their extensive experience and previous accomplishments in Uganda.
He assured a participative and comprehensive approach in executing the project.
