Press Release | United States Increases Access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Services in Uganda’s Masaka, Jinja, and Acholi Regions
Kampala, May 24, 2023 – A U.S. government project contributed to the health and livelihoods of nearly a million Ugandans through improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.
Ugandans in 20 districts across the country’s central, eastern, and northern regions received increased access to sustainable water and sanitation services and products through the Uganda Sanitation for Health Activity of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The activity also contributed to improved hygiene in households, communities, schools, and healthcare facilities.
Achievements over the last five years of the American government-funded program include the following:
- More than 800,000 people attained basic sanitation, investing their own money to construct quality basic toilet facilities for their homes.
- 1,800 villages attained “Open Defecation Free” status.
- 115 schools (in partnership with Rotary International) received upgraded latrines with menstrual hygiene components, creating a healthier learning environment and contributing to more girls choosing to stay in school.
- 1,640 new water connections were installed, serving 39,360 people with half of the connections going to the poorest households.
- 175 kilometers of new water supply pipeline were laid.
- 94,488 people saw improved water service or gained access to a new basic or safely managed water supply (in collaboration with Rotary International).
USAID/Uganda Mission Director Richard Nelson said, “I express my sincere appreciation to all of you who worked tirelessly to promote healthier Ugandan communities by improving access to quality toilets and safely managed water supply.”
Nelson encouraged government officials to prioritize sanitation and hygiene when planning and allocating resources. “Over 10 million Ugandans still lack access to safe drinking water, and close to 15 million lack access to sanitation services. And much more needs to be done to support menstrual hygiene for girls. Ensuring that there are facilities available for menstrual hygiene management will help girls stay in school, avoid early marriage, and break the cycle of poverty. I urge the Government of Uganda, district local governments, and all other decision makers to elevate sanitation and hygiene as a development priority,” Nelson said.
For additional information, please contact:
Dorothy Nanyonga
Information Assistant
U.S. Mission Uganda
Tel: +256-414-250-314 x6104 Cell: 0772-138-194
Email: KampalaPress@state.gov
