Overview:

UGX 30 billion clean water project launched by Centenary Bank and water.org to benefit 13,000 households in Uganda

KAMPALA, UGANDA – Centenary Bank and water.org have launched a groundbreaking partnership to provide affordable financing for clean water and sanitation solutions in Uganda.

The UGX 30 billion initiative aims to benefit 13,000 households across the country, addressing the pressing issue of access to safe drinking water.

Speaking at the launch, Fabian Kasi, Managing Director of Centenary Bank, emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing social challenges.

“This partnership is aimed at promoting water supply and sanitation programs,” Kasi said. “We want to enable people to access finance to meet their needs, specifically clean water.”

Water.org has provided a grant of USD 200,000 (approximately UGX 700 million) to support the initiative, covering operational costs, including staff training.

Francis Musinguzi, Regional Director of water.org, highlighted the organization’s commitment to increasing investment in the water and sanitation sector.

“We are proud to work with Centenary Bank to bring more finance into the sector,” Musinguzi said.

The initiative aligns with Centenary Bank’s green financing strategy, which includes solar energy and other environmentally friendly loans.

Dr. Callist Tindimugaya, Commissioner for Water Resources, Planning and Regulatory Department in the Ministry of Water, welcomed the private sector investment.

“Innovative financing programs are crucial to address the growing need for safe drinking water,” Dr. Tindimugaya said.

Uganda’s water crisis is a pressing concern, with access to safe drinking water in rural areas standing at 67% and urban areas at 72%.

The partnership seeks to bridge this gap by providing affordable financing options for households and institutions.

Beneficiaries will access financing to install water collection systems, boreholes, and water supply connections.

Centenary Bank’s WASH loan product will be integrated into its portfolio of green financing options.