KAMPALA — The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has intensified reforms aimed at reducing water losses and improving service delivery across the country.
Officials say non-revenue water, water that is produced but not billed, remains a major challenge, with losses estimated at between 10 and 15 percent in some parts of the distribution network.
The losses are largely attributed to illegal connections, metering inaccuracies, and technical constraints within sections of the system.
NWSC management also highlighted emerging challenges in water measurement, particularly in areas affected by pressure variations, overhead tanks, and multiple connection points, which can distort consumption data.
“These complexities create gaps in accurate measurement and require targeted technical studies to address them,” officials said.
To tackle the problem, the corporation is undertaking research and pilot projects aimed at improving metering accuracy and enhancing understanding of system performance under varying operational conditions.
The findings, according to officials, will inform infrastructure upgrades, improve billing accuracy, and support more efficient network management.
Illegal connections and vandalism were also cited as persistent challenges affecting service continuity. NWSC called for stronger enforcement, closer collaboration with security agencies, and increased public awareness to safeguard water infrastructure.
While some level of system loss is expected in large-scale distribution networks, the corporation noted that ongoing investments in technology and monitoring systems will significantly reduce inefficiencies over time.
NWSC reaffirmed its commitment to improving operational efficiency and expanding access to clean and safe water in line with Uganda’s national development priorities.