The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje Abubakhar, today signed the Host Country Agreement with the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) to formally establish the African Water and Sanitation Academy in Uganda. This landmark agreement positions Uganda as the headquarters for the Academy, further solidifying the country’s commitment to addressing water and sanitation challenges on the continent.
During the signing ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Offices, Hon. Odongo congratulated AfWASA on this significant achievement and expressed his optimism about the Academy’s role in enhancing water and sanitation services across Africa. He reiterated that Uganda, through its National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), has made commendable strides in extending water and sanitation services nationwide, yet more work remains to be done to ensure universal access.
“The African Water and Sanitation Academy will be pivotal in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which calls for clean water and sanitation for all. The Academy’s mission to become a leadership center for skill enhancement, mindset, and attitude change among water professionals is a timely and necessary intervention,” said Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje.
Dr. Silver Mugisha, President of the African Water and Sanitation Association, expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for facilitating the establishment of the Academy and underscored its importance in addressing the low levels of water and sanitation coverage in Africa. He highlighted that the Academy will not only serve as a model institution for other academies on the continent but also spearhead initiatives to improve livelihoods by providing enhanced training and leadership for water professionals.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to support the Academy in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Environment, ensuring that its objectives and mission are achieved. This initiative is expected to bring tangible benefits to the people of Uganda and across the continent by improving access to essential water and sanitation services.
On behalf of the Government of Uganda and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Gen. Odongo Jeje concluded by wishing the African Water and Sanitation Academy success in its endeavors.
