Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, Justine Kasule Lumumba has emphasized the crucial need for collaborative efforts in government to ensure improved water supply, quality and transmission.
Lumumba, speaking as chief guest during the inaugural ceremony of the 8th Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK 2025) underscored the critical role of water and environmental management in Uganda’s sustainable future.
The 8th Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEWK 2025) launched at the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) Headquarters, drawing a vibrant crowd of policymakers, researchers, development partners, and community members.
Organized by the MWE through the Water Resources Institute (WRI), this weeklong event is set to tackle Uganda’s pressing environmental challenges under the theme, Water and environment resources for enhanced resilience and improved incomes and livelihoods.
She emphasized the crucial role of water’s indispensable link to development.
“You cannot talk about the Sustainable Development Goals without talking about water.” Lumumba said. “Our babies, our farmers, our industries—they all depend on water. This week is about ensuring that every Ugandan has the chance to thrive, not just survive.”
Her remarks resonate with the rollout of the R21 malaria vaccine, expounding on how clean water and a healthy environment amplify such health breakthroughs by reducing disease burdens.
The Minister underscored the urgency of prioritizing water access to uplift communities and challenged the authorities responsible to adopt practical, people-centered solutions to some of the challenges.
“I wish to challenge the Ministry of Water and Environment to utilize the available resources more efficiently and effectively, and also put in the component of following up on the resources you have sent to the different sectors,” Lumumba stated.
Before declaring the official opening of the conference, Lumumba commended the collaborative spirit of UWEWK 2025, noting the importance of cooperation between the government and the private sector.
“We must work together, both government and private sector, because we are on this journey together. On behalf of the Office of the Prime Minister, we remain committed to improving the equipping of the Ministry of Water,” she said.
The 8th Uganda Water and Environment Week- UWEWK 2025 promises a dynamic lineup including exhibitions of cutting-edge water and waste management technologies, applied trainings on climate adaptation, and field visits to showcase on-the-ground impact.
The event will also mark International Forest Day (March 21), World Water Day (March 22), and World Meteorological Day (March 23), weaving global environmental priorities into Uganda’s narrative.
With stakeholders from across Uganda and beyond, UWEWK 2025 is poised to spark actionable change, reinforcing the nation’s resolve to build a sustainable, thriving future. The week ahead will test that commitment, blending dialogue, technology, and community voices into a blueprint for progress.
