As the 22nd African Water and Sanitation Association International Congress and Exhibition (AFWASA-ICE 2025) draws near, experts are preparing to share solutions aimed at improving water access across Africa.
The congress, with the theme “Water and Sanitation for All: A Secure Future for Africa,” will take place from February 16 to 20, 2025, at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Kampala, Uganda.
Magumba Waiswa, a staff member of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), is set to present his research on “The Impact and Mitigating Strategies for Non-Revenue Water” under the Water Management track.
His work highlights the urgent need to address water loss caused by leakage, unauthorized consumption, and inaccurate metering, which together contribute to significant financial losses and strain on water supply systems.
Recent data shows that non-revenue Water (NRW) in the Kampala Water zone averages between 37% and 46.2%, far above the World Bank’s recommended limit of 25%.
Magumba’s proposed solution centers on smart metering systems as a key strategy for reducing NRW. He advocates for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) to enable real-time data collection and analysis, which would help identify consumption patterns, detect anomalies, and pinpoint areas with high NRW.
Regular meter calibration and maintenance are also crucial to ensure accuracy. His approach emphasizes a comprehensive solution that includes upgrading infrastructure, implementing demand-side management, and embracing technological innovations.
In an interview, Magumba praised the NWSC leadership for their creative approaches in tackling NRW and stressed the importance of practical, time-sensitive strategies. His presentation at the congress will contribute to the ongoing dialogue on how Africa can improve water management, support SDG 6, and secure a sustainable water future.
Dr Eng Silver Mugisha, Managing Director of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), emphasized the significance of AFWASA-ICE 2025, stating, “This congress will not only address critical issues like Non-Revenue Water but also serve as a catalyst for driving the necessary innovations and collaborations to ensure a secure water future for the continent.”
The discussions and presentations aim to take significant steps toward achieving SDG 6 and providing safe water and sanitation for all in Africa.
