LIRA CITY, Uganda — Lira City is hosting the Northern Uganda Water and Environment Week, featuring a series of activities aimed at promoting sustainable water use, environmental conservation, and climate resilience.
On Sunday, 15th March 2026, officials, development partners, and community members witnessed the official launch of the Northern Region celebrations of Uganda Water and Environment Week (UWEW) at the UTC Lira playgrounds. The colorful launch marked the start of a five-day series of events engaging schools, institutions, and communities.
The celebrations, part of the ninth annual UWEW, coincide with three major international observances: International Day of Forests (March 21), World Water Day (March 22), and World Meteorological Day (March 23). Since its inception in 2018, UWEW has served as a vital platform for multi-sectoral dialogue on environmental sustainability and resource management in Uganda.
In his keynote address at the launch, Keirudog Paskwale, Team Leader for the Upper Nile Water Management Zone under the Ministry of Water and Environment, highlighted the centrality of water and environmental resources to Uganda’s socio-economic development.
“Water is life, and a healthy environment is the foundation of sustainable growth,” Paskwale said. “This week provides an opportunity to reflect, strategize, and act collectively to safeguard our natural resources for present and future generations.”
He emphasized that this year’s theme, “Promoting Inclusivity in Water and Environmental Management,” aims to ensure all Ugandans, particularly marginalized and rural communities, benefit equitably from sustainable development initiatives.
Paskwale further noted that effective water resource management is critical to achieving Uganda Vision 2040, the country’s blueprint to transform the economy from $50 billion to a $500 billion middle-income nation. “Without water, agriculture, energy, industry, and health sectors cannot thrive. Sustainable water governance is non-negotiable for economic transformation,” he stated.
Engaging Schools, Communities, and Institutions
Brenda Akak, Senior Communication Officer at the Ministry of Water and Environment and Chairperson of the 2026 Regional Organizing Committee, highlighted the extensive outreach planned throughout the week. Activities will run until Thursday, March 19, and target schools, institutions, and the general public through interactive and educational engagements.
“Water and environmental challenges affect every Ugandan—urban and rural, young and old,” Akak said. “That’s why we’ve opened the week to all stakeholders, from local leaders to private enterprises, to join hands in protecting our shared natural heritage.”
Planned activities include:
Tree planting and city greening campaigns at Adyel Children’s Park, Lira Town College, Coronation Park, and other sites.
School debates and innovation exhibitions focused on water and environmental solutions, with 21 schools participating. The winning school will represent Northern Uganda at the national UWEW celebrations in Kampala.
Community clean-up exercises in public spaces and drainage systems.
Public dialogues, cultural performances, and exhibitions showcasing technologies and initiatives by organizations working in water, sanitation, and environmental conservation.
Anna Achan, Social Development Officer at the ministry and event coordinator, explained that the selected greening sites were chosen for high public visibility and long-term impact. “We want to leave a lasting green legacy in Lira City. These trees will grow with the community, offering shade, cleaner air, and environmental pride,” she said.
The regional event has drawn support from development partners and private sector institutions, including National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), DFCU Bank, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa, Absa Bank Uganda, and Centenary Bank.
Moses Ogwal, Executive Director of Meaningful Empowerment for Change and Poverty Alleviation (MECPA), welcomed the growing collaboration between government, civil society, and private sector. “Since 2018, communities have taken greater ownership of environmental issues, and private companies are recognizing their role in sustainable development. This momentum must continue beyond this week,” he said.
The week will conclude with a grand finale at Mayor’s Garden, Lira City, featuring a colorful city clean-up, exhibitions, cultural dances, and public dialogues. The event is expected to draw thousands of residents, local leaders, and environmental champions across Northern Uganda.
