KAMPALA,UGANDA – The Government of Uganda, through the National Water and Sewerage Corporation [NWSC], has unveiled a Shs14.24 billion water project for Hoima City aimed at boosting supply ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
NWSC Managing Director Dr. Mugisha announced the project Tuesday during a media briefing at the corporation’s headquarters in Nakasero. He said it is part of government’s strategic investment in critical infrastructure ahead of the tournament and to support growth of the Albertine Region as Uganda’s oil and gas hub.
Hoima is among the Ugandan cities selected to host AFCON 2027 matches, alongside Kampala and Lira, as Uganda co-hosts the continental showpiece with Kenya and Tanzania from June to July 2027.
*Project details*
The Hoima 2 project will draw raw water from River Kafu in Kikuube District, treat it at a new conventional water treatment plant, and transmit it to Hoima City through a bulk water transfer system. Key components include:
1. A treatment plant with capacity to produce 2,000 cubic meters of water daily
2. About 25 kilometers of transmission and distribution pipelines
3. A 300-cubic-meter elevated steel reservoir at Musaijamukulu hill
4. Associated pumping, electrical and storage infrastructure
Dr. Mugisha said Hoima 2 is designed to augment the existing Hoima 1 system, which can no longer meet demand due to rapid urbanization, population growth, and rising industrial activity linked to oil and gas.
“The current system is no longer sufficient to adequately meet the water needs of Hoima City and its surrounding areas,” he said, calling Hoima 2 an urgent intervention for the short to medium term.
Government and NWSC are also finalizing designs for a longer-term Hoima 3 Water Supply System to substantially expand production, transmission and storage. The two systems will eventually be integrated into a unified network.
“NWSC therefore appeals to government to make available the required funding for implementation of Hoima 3 immediately upon completion of the designs,” Dr. Mugisha said.
*Implementation*
The project is jointly funded by Government of Uganda and NWSC and is expected to take eight months. Works are being carried out by Zhonghao Overseas Construction Engineering Company Limited.
Dr. Mugisha tasked the contractor to deliver within time and cost: “Time delays will not be acceptable.”
Zhonghao MD Ma Yongqian and Deputy MD Wang Feifei pledged to deliver on schedule, maintain quality standards, and mobilize local manpower to boost community economic wellbeing.
NWSC said the project will improve reliability and quality of Hoima’s water supply, reduce shortages, support urban growth and industrialization, and strengthen the region’s readiness for AFCON 2027.
