The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has called for stronger corporate leadership in managing artificial intelligence (AI), warning that emerging technologies must no longer be left as the responsibility of only technical teams but should become a key issue for boardroom decision-making.
The call was made on Wednesday, July 30, 2026, during the Africa Big Tech Accountability Summit held at Fairway Hotel in Kampala, where experts from the legal, technology and governance sectors gathered to discuss responsible innovation, digital regulation and ethical use of AI across Africa.
Representing NWSC at the summit, Brownie Ebal, the Corporation’s Manager for Litigation and Legal Advisory Services, said boards must take an active role in understanding how AI systems are being introduced, the data they rely on, the decisions they influence and the possible impact on employees, customers and institutions.
Ebal emphasized that artificial intelligence should be treated as part of an organisation’s wider risk management strategy rather than being viewed purely as an information technology issue. She said companies need strong governance systems that guide AI from planning and procurement to implementation, monitoring and eventual replacement.
She highlighted key measures needed for safe AI adoption, including clear leadership responsibility, involvement of different departments, assessment of possible impacts, careful selection of technology providers, protection of data, human oversight and regular evaluation of AI systems.
Drawing from global corporate governance practices, Ebal noted that boards have a duty to oversee technology, information and data management in a way that supports long-term institutional growth while protecting public confidence and organisational values.
NWSC’s participation comes as the Corporation prepares an internal AI policy aimed at guiding the responsible use of artificial intelligence within its operations. The Human Resources Department has already begun equipping staff with knowledge on AI applications, benefits and the importance of ethical usage.
The Corporation said successful AI adoption requires more than advanced technology, adding that strong policies, skilled personnel, accountability and proper safeguards are essential. NWSC believes the new approach will help it harness AI to improve service delivery while protecting customer information and strengthening institutional governance.
