The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, has officially signed a Host Country Agreement with the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) to establish the African Water and Sanitation Academy in Uganda. This agreement positions Uganda as the headquarters for the Academy, reinforcing the country’s commitment to addressing water and sanitation challenges across the African continent.
At the signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odongo commended AfWASA for this milestone and expressed optimism about the Academy’s potential to enhance water and sanitation services throughout Africa. He highlighted Uganda’s achievements in expanding water and sanitation services through the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) but noted that efforts must continue to ensure universal access.
“The African Water and Sanitation Academy will play a crucial role in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation for all,” said Hon. Odongo. He emphasized that the Academy will serve as a center for leadership development, skill enhancement, and mindset change among water professionals, which is essential for the continent’s future.
Dr. Silver Mugisha, President of AfWASA, thanked the Ugandan government for supporting the Academy’s establishment and underscored its significance in improving water and sanitation coverage in Africa. He noted that the Academy would not only be a model for similar institutions across the continent but would also spearhead initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods by equipping water professionals with enhanced skills and leadership.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Environment, will continue supporting the Academy to ensure its mission and objectives are realized. This initiative is expected to yield substantial benefits for Uganda and the wider continent by enhancing access to vital water and sanitation services.
Hon. Gen. Odongo concluded by wishing the African Water and Sanitation Academy success in its endeavors, confident that it will drive meaningful change in Africa’s water and sanitation sector.
