The Government of Uganda, through the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), is making progress on the Kanungu Water Supply Improvement Project, which is expected to significantly improve access to safe and reliable water in Kihihi and surrounding communities in Kanungu District.The project is designed to increase safe water production by at least 2 million litres per day while strengthening the transmission and storage system and extending the distribution network to meet the growing water needs of households, schools, health facilities, businesses and the tourism sector.
Construction commenced on February 27, 2026, and is scheduled to run for 18 months, followed by a 12-month defects liability period. The project covers several major infrastructure components aimed at increasing production capacity and improving the reliability of water supply across the target areas.Under the Matanda–Kihihi component, a new spring source capable of producing at least 1 million litres of water per day is being developed, alongside a pump station, approximately 13.3 kilometres of pumping main and a 200,000-litre elevated reservoir.At Mpangango/Katete–Kihihi, the existing water source is being upgraded from a capacity of 1 million to 2 million litres per day.
The works also include a pump station, about 5.5 kilometres of pumping main and 12.6 kilometres of gravity main, while the Kihanda component includes approximately 7.2 kilometres of gravity pipeline and related infrastructure.The project has so far reached 33% overall completion, with pipework emerging as one of the main drivers of progress at 50%. Approximately 25 kilometres of the planned 40 kilometres of pipelines have already been laid, while the break pressure tank along the Katete–Kihihi line has been completed.Concrete works at the Matanda spring source are ongoing, while power extensions to both the Matanda and Mpangango spring sources have been completed.
The contractor has also been directed to commence and accelerate works at the Mpangango spring source to maintain momentum on the project.Once completed, the project is expected to provide more reliable access to clean water for communities, schools, health facilities, businesses and tourism establishments. It will also reduce dependence on unsafe water sources, improve hygiene and public health, and contribute to local economic activity and household welfare in Kanungu District.
