Over 1,000 delegates from more than 40 countries have registered to participate in the 22nd African Water and Sanitation Association International Congress and Exhibition (AfWASA ICE2025).
The event, which will be held in Kampala, Uganda, is set to take place from Sunday, February 16, to Thursday, February 20, 2025.
Eng. Dr. Silver Mugisha, President of AfWASA and Managing Director of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), confirmed the milestone during a press briefing on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
He emphasized the importance of this gathering, highlighting its role in shaping the future of water and sanitation management across Africa.
“This will be the third time Uganda is hosting the AfWASA Congress. The first was in 2010, the second in 2020, and now we are honored to host it again at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo,” Dr. Mugisha stated. “I have personally visited the venue, and the setup is excellent.”
A Platform for Innovation and Collaboration
The weeklong congress will feature 80 sessions covering a wide range of critical topics, including water governance, financing, research, technology, and innovation.
Delegates will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and professionals in the water and sanitation sector to explore sustainable solutions to the continent’s pressing challenges.
“As Uganda, through NWSC, is an active member of AfWASA, this congress offers us an opportunity to learn from global best practices and integrate innovative approaches into our water management strategies,” Dr. Mugisha noted.
“Through these interactions, we have gained valuable insights that have significantly contributed to our growth.”
NWSC will use the platform to present a case study on Source Protection and Catchment Management, showcasing its ongoing initiatives to safeguard water sources.
Dr. Mugisha highlighted several projects incorporating catchment protection measures in Arua, Mbale, Masaka, Kampala, Gulu, and the upcoming initiative in Adjumani.
Addressing Climate Change and Strengthening Infrastructure
A major focus of this year’s congress will be climate change resilience and adaptation in the water and sanitation sector.
NWSC has already taken proactive measures to reinforce infrastructure in flood-prone areas, such as the Karuma-Gulu pipeline, which has been designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Additionally, NWSC has elevated pipelines along the Gaba-Kampala route to mitigate disruptions caused by flooding.
One of the key highlights of the congress will be the launch of the African Water and Sanitation Academy (AWASA), which will be headquartered in Uganda.
The academy aims to provide leadership development and change management training for water professionals across Africa, strengthening capacity and knowledge-sharing in the sector.
“The government of Uganda and AfWASA signed a historic host agreement for AWASA in September 2024, positioning Uganda as a hub for water and sanitation management in Africa,” Dr. Mugisha explained.
AWASA is an initiative of the African Water Association, created to enhance skills development and capacity-building for water and sanitation professionals throughout the continent.
Economic and Tourism Benefits for Uganda
Beyond its impact on the water sector, the congress is expected to provide a significant boost to Uganda’s economy and tourism industry.
With over 1,000 international delegates in attendance, the event is anticipated to generate revenue for local businesses, including hotels, transport services, and tourism attractions.
“The congress will not only bring financial benefits through international visitors but will also promote Uganda as a prime destination,” Dr. Mugisha said.
“Many attendees are drawn to Uganda for its favorable climate, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.”
In addition to the formal sessions, the congress will feature a dynamic exhibition, where various technological advancements and innovations in water and sanitation will be showcased.
The event is expected to attract investors interested in manufacturing essential water sector components locally, further enhancing Uganda’s infrastructure development.
Uganda’s Commitment to Environmental Conservation
As part of its broader commitment to environmental conservation, Uganda will also highlight its Young Water Professionals initiative, which has successfully planted one million trees.
NWSC has also partnered with organizations such as Rotary International to support wetland restoration projects, including conservation efforts along the River Rwizi catchment.
“We are actively working on projects like River Rwizi catchment protection to ensure long-term water security,” Dr. Mugisha emphasized. “Collaboration with stakeholders has been instrumental in achieving our goals.”
With just days to go until the congress begins, Dr. Mugisha encouraged all interested Ugandans to participate.
“This is a paid event, and there is an option to register and pay on-site. Those interested can also visit the event’s official website for more details,” he concluded.
The 22nd AfWASA Congress promises to be a landmark event, fostering collaboration, innovation, and progress in water and sanitation management across Africa.
