Masaka Water Woes: NWSC Battles Theft, Invests in Major Infrastructure Upgrade
MASAKA – The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) is grappling with notable financial losses due to illegal water connections and non-payment of tariffs in the Greater Masaka region. In the financial year 2025/2026 alone, the corporation estimates losses of approximately UGX 300 million.Concurrently, NWSC is undertaking a ample infrastructure project to address long-standing water supply challenges and meet the growing demands of the region’s population.
The Rising Tide of Water Theft
Engineer Emmanuel Mujuni, the NWSC Area Manager for Masaka, has highlighted the escalating issue of water theft, particularly in the Nyendo suburbs. Organized groups are illegally accessing water without payment, severely impacting the NWSC’s revenue and hindering its ability to maintain and expand services.
“These illegal connections are increasing in number, and the majority are concentrated in Nyendo,” Mujuni stated during a recent press briefing. “This poses a significant setback to the growth and sustainability of the institution. We are actively pursuing legal action against those found guilty of water misuse or theft,and we strongly condemn this practice.”
The NWSC has a strong track record of prosecuting those who vandalize or tamper with water infrastructure, including stealing meters [1]. This commitment to protecting public utilities is crucial in maintaining service quality and financial stability.
A Multi-Million Euro Investment in water Security
To address both the immediate revenue losses and the long-term need for increased water capacity, NWSC has partnered with Sogea Satom, a French construction firm, to embark on a major infrastructure project. This project centers around the construction of a new water treatment plant in Bukakata village, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria.
The existing Namajjuzi water treatment plant, originally established in 1956, is no longer capable of meeting the demands of Masaka’s expanding population. Recognizing this critical need, NWSC has secured approximately €30 million (roughly UGX 120-130 billion, depending on exchange rates) in funding from the government and various partners to modernize the water supply system.
key Components of the Infrastructure Project:
- New Water Intake Facility: Located at the Bukakata landing site on Lake Victoria, this facility will have a capacity of 28 million litres per day [3].
- Conventional Water Treatment Plant: Complementing the intake facility,a new treatment plant will process 14 million litres of water daily,ensuring a clean and reliable water supply.
- Expanded Storage Capacity: An 8.1-acre storage tank is being constructed to increase water storage capacity and ensure consistent supply for both residential and commercial users.
This initiative builds upon a feasibility study conducted in 2016, which laid the groundwork for a long-term expansion plan spanning from 2022 to 2030. The goal is to considerably improve water access across Masaka City and surrounding areas, effectively tackling chronic water scarcity.
Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Water Future for Masaka
The new Bukakata facility is designed to produce up to 28 million litres of treated water daily [3], a substantial increase from the current capacity.This upgrade is part of a broader effort to rehabilitate wastewater systems and enhance overall water production capabilities.
Engineer Mujuni reaffirmed NWSC’s commitment to providing Masaka City residents with an abundant and safe water supply.The corporation’s collaboration with experienced contractors like Sogea Satom is vital to delivering sustainable infrastructure improvements.
The progress of this crucial project will be closely monitored by Watchdog Uganda, with updates provided on developments impacting public service delivery in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is causing water scarcity in Masaka?
The primary causes of water scarcity in Masaka are the aging infrastructure, particularly the Namajjuzi water treatment plant, and the rapidly growing population. Illegal water connections and non-payment of tariffs also exacerbate the problem.
How much is the NWSC investing in the new water infrastructure?
The NWSC has secured approximately €30 million (UGX 120-130 billion) in funding for the project, sourced from the government and partner organizations.
When will the new Bukakata water treatment plant be operational?
While a specific completion date hasn’t been publicly announced, the project is part of a long-term plan from 2022 to 2030, indicating a phased implementation with the Bukakata plant as a key component.