With preparations for AFCON 2027 picking up pace, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has moved to fast-track an emergency water project in Hoima City, underscoring growing urgency to plug infrastructure gaps ahead of the continental tournament.
The proposed system, to be constructed at River Kafu, is intended to stabilise water supply in Hoima and support key facilities such as the planned stadium and Kabaale International Airport.
NWSC Managing Director Dr Eng Silver Mugisha said the project has already been advertised, marking the beginning of what officials describe as a critical intervention to avoid supply disruptions during the tournament.
The works are expected to begin in July 2026 and be completed in time for AFCON.
Uganda, which will co-host the tournament with Kenya and Tanzania, is positioning the event as a catalyst for broader economic and infrastructure growth. Hoima—already a focal point due to oil and gas developments—is expected to play a central role, increasing pressure on existing utilities.
Officials say ensuring reliable water supply will be key to supporting hospitality, transport and construction demands as the city prepares for an influx of visitors.
However, the announcement comes at a time when parts of the country are already grappling with water challenges.
NWSC confirmed that sections of Mukono District and northeastern Kampala are experiencing temporary supply interruptions due to ongoing upgrades on the Katosi water transmission system. The works involve replacing a critical pipeline joint to improve efficiency and long-term reliability.
The utility says the works are nearing completion, with normal supply expected to resume soon.
In Mbarara City, water supply has also been affected following defects discovered in the raw water pumping system at River Kagera. The infrastructure, still under the contractor’s defect liability period, is undergoing corrective works expected to last up to a week.
In the meantime, residents are being served through rationing from alternative production systems.
NWSC maintains that these short-term disruptions are part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s water infrastructure under its Strategic Plan 2025–2030.
The corporation says ongoing investments are targeting fast-growing urban centres where demand has outpaced supply, including Mbale, Arua, Lira, Iganga and Masaka.
As the AFCON countdown continues, attention is increasingly shifting beyond sports infrastructure to essential services—where reliable water supply is emerging as a key test of Uganda’s readiness.
