Elgon Water Catchment gets sh1b conservation boost

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Uganda’s water and environmental health are under significant threat. The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) reports that Uganda loses approximately 791 square kilometres of wetlands annually, with projections warning of depletion by 2040 if the trend continues.

To respond to this crisis, Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL) has committed sh1 billion to protect the Mt. Elgon water catchment, a crucial natural resource that supplies water to thousands and supports key agricultural activities in the region.

James Kisekka (left), Aid Environment director exchanges MOU signed copies with Andrew Kilonzo (right), UBL managing Director as Alfred Okidi, water ministry PS looks. (Photo by Juliet Kasirye)

The commitment, announced under the Elgon Pamoja Partnership during the recent water and sanitation activities at the Ministry of Water offices in Luzira, marked a significant private sector investment in Uganda’s water security and climate resilience.

The launch, held as part of the 2025 Water and Environment Week, brought together government officials, private sector leaders, environmental groups, and community representatives.

The initiative focuses on nature-based solutions such as afforestation, soil conservation, and water harvesting to restore ecosystems and enhance climate resilience in Kapchorwa, Bukwo, Kween, and Bulambuli districts.

Speaking at the event, UBL Managing Director Andrew Kilonzo emphasised the company’s dedication to safeguarding water resources.

Andrew Kilonzo, UBL managing Director addressing participants about UBL efforts towards environmental conservation. (Photo by Juliet Kasirye)

“Water is our most important ingredient. We understand how important and precious this resource is, and because of that, we want to protect and sustain it for generations to come,” he stated.

Kilonzo highlighted that the Mt. Elgon region is not only an important water catchment but also a vital source of barley and sorghum, key raw materials for the brewery. “The project interventions will also improve the yields and incomes for farmers,” he added.

Dr. Alfred Okidi, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Water and Environment, commended UBL for its proactive role in conservation efforts.

Alfred Okidi, water ministry PS addressing participants during the closure of the Uganda Water and Environment Week at the Water ministry headquarters in Luzira on 21st March 2025. (Photo by Juliet Kasirye)

“I want to commend Uganda Breweries for committing sh1b to environmental conservation. I hope these funds will go a long way in protecting the Mt. Elgon Water Catchment,” he said.

The Elgon Pamoja Partnership builds upon AidEnvironment’s previous Green Future Farming project (2020-2024), which was funded by the IKEA Foundation with a sh3.6b grant.

It also integrates aspects of the ongoing Harvest Health project (2024-2027), supported by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency with UGX 2.4 billion.

James W. Kisekka, Director of AidEnvironment, underscored the importance of collaboration in tackling environmental challenges.

James Kisekka (left), Aid Environment director and Andrew Kilonzo (right), UBL Managing Director shake hands while display copies of signed copies of memorandum of understanding as Alfred Okidi, water ministry PS looks. (Photo by Juliet Kasirye)

“Solutions to environmental problems require a multi-sectoral approach. This program demonstrates that the private sector, civil society, and government are willing to work together to protect our environment.”

The initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader environmental and economic goals, contributing to multiple Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including clean water and sanitation (SDG 6), climate action (SDG 13), and life on land (SDG 15).

With backing from the Ministry of Water and Environment, development partners, and local communities, the program is expected to enhance water security, improve farmer livelihoods, and position Uganda as a leader in sustainability-driven public-private partnerships.

Stakeholders at the event urged more industry players to join the initiative, emphasising that water catchments are shared resources that require collective responsibility for sustainable management.