Uganda has been selected to host the International Water Association (IWA) Water and Development Congress and Exhibition in 2027, an international event expected to bring together more than 3,000 participants from across the global water and sanitation sector.
The announcement was made during the IWA’s 2026 Annual General Meeting in Glasgow, Scotland, placing Uganda on the international stage as a host for discussions on sustainable water management, sanitation services and innovative solutions to water-related challenges.
The congress will attract water-sector experts, researchers, policymakers, investors, development partners, and industry leaders to Kampala to exchange knowledge, explore new technologies, and establish partnerships to improve access to safe water and sanitation.
The Government of Uganda, through the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), will coordinate preparations for the event. The country will draw on its experience in hosting major international gatherings, including the 2025 African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) International Congress and Exhibition in Kampala, which attracted more than 2,500 delegates.
IWA leadership has expressed confidence in Uganda’s ability to organise the congress successfully, while NWSC has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the country is ready to welcome international participants.
Beyond its technical and development objectives, the 2027 congress is expected to create economic opportunities for Uganda. Hotels, transport operators, restaurants, event organisers and exhibition businesses are among the sectors that could benefit from the anticipated influx of visitors.
The gathering will also give Ugandan institutions and businesses a chance to showcase locally developed water and sanitation solutions, strengthen professional networks, and attract potential investment into the sector.
