France eyes bigger role in Uganda’s water and sanitation sector

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The French Ambassador to Uganda, Xavier Sticker, has called on over 30 French companies to increase their investment in Uganda’s water and sanitation sector.

During a reception on February 18, 2025, held at his residence in Nakasero, Amb. Sticker emphasised the critical need for partnerships between French companies and local businesses to address Uganda’s water and sanitation challenges.

The representatives from these companies are in Uganda to attend the International Congress and Exhibition of the African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA), a major water sector conference being held in Kampala.

Guests interact as Xavier Sticker (left) French Ambassador to Uganda listens during a cocktail at his residence in Kampala, on Feb. 18, 2025. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda)

AfWASA boasts 237 members, including public operators from over 40 African countries, offering a platform for exchanging views on challenges, solutions, and opportunities in the sector.

“Water is a sector of international importance,” Ambassador Sticker remarked. “French companies have developed significant expertise in this area, and we already have investments totalling over $40m in Uganda. Across Africa, our water sector investments are substantial, and Uganda holds great potential for further growth.”

He underscored that Uganda’s water sector presents many opportunities for collaboration and investment, especially as the country continues to face challenges related to water access and sanitation.

“I welcome French companies with international experience to build partnerships and implement impactful projects in Uganda,” he added.

Guests attending a cocktail at the French ambassador's residence in Kampala, on Feb. 18, 2025. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda)

The state of water access in Uganda

Despite the country's abundant natural water resources, including Lake Victoria, approximately 38% of Uganda’s population lacks access to clean drinking water. National water coverage is around 62%, with rural areas having a slightly higher rate of 64%, while urban areas lag at 55%. This disparity, combined with poor sanitation and water pollution, creates significant barriers to clean water access, particularly in rural regions.

Amb. Sticker reaffirmed France’s commitment to addressing these challenges, highlighting several ongoing and upcoming projects. France has already committed a major investment of sh400b to expand water supply services for 500,000 people in northern Kampala.

Other key projects include water treatment plants in Masaka, the installation of drinking water networks, and feasibility studies for water projects in Lira, Fort Portal, and Hoima, which will benefit over one million Ugandans.

Notably, the Kagera River water treatment plant, funded with sh350b, is expected to provide clean water to residents in southwestern Uganda by the second half of 2025.

Sewerage coverage a growing concern

While water access is improving, sewage and sanitation infrastructure remains a major concern. The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) manages only 670 kilometres of sewer networks, covering just 30% of the country’s needs. In rural areas, sanitation coverage is almost nonexistent, with only 39% of urban areas having access to adequate sanitation. Alarmingly, only 7% of rural areas are equipped with proper sanitation systems, contributing to widespread health risks.

“Investing in sanitation infrastructure is equally important as investing in water supply,” Ambassador Sticker noted. “We hope that French companies will help address this urgent need, particularly in rural communities.”

Private Sector Support for Investment

Robert Kiarie, senior trade adviser at Business France, emphasised the strong focus of French companies on the water sector and urged local organisations to take an active role in promoting partnerships. “We are encouraging French investors to engage with Ugandan firms, and we hope the Private Sector Foundation of Uganda will undertake a benchmarking visit to France to explore the potential for expanding investments in the water sector.”

Dr Daniel Vildozo, director general of Envitech France, highlighted French technology solutions for wastewater treatment and reuse. “Our technology enables the treatment of wastewater for reuse in irrigation and even the production of fertilisers from waste materials, helping to improve agricultural practices in Uganda.”

A vision for the future

With France’s continued support and increasing investment, there is growing optimism that Uganda can overcome its water and sanitation challenges.

Through collaboration with international companies, Uganda is poised to expand access to clean water and improve sanitation, providing a healthier future for millions of Ugandans.