The Managing Director of the National Water Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha, has won the International Water Association (IWA) Award. He was recognized for his outstanding contribution to water management and science during an event held in Toronto, Canada.
The International Water Association is a self-governing nonprofit organization and knowledge hub for the water sector, connecting water professionals and companies to find solutions to the world’s water challenges.
On Sunday, August 11, 2024, in Toronto, Canada, during the President’s dinner, Dr. Mugisha was recognized for his 30 years of leadership career in water management and research.
While presenting the award for practice to Dr. Mugisha, the judges described him as a pillar in transforming the NWSC into a model for water utilities both locally and globally, indicating huge progress in the sector.
The IWA awards are judged by a diverse panel of experts and are awarded in recognition of research or practice that has led to a demonstrable impact in middle-income countries like Uganda.
Previous winners of the IWA awards include Dr. Veena Srinivasan, who received the 2023 Development Award for research for her work at WELL Labs in India, and Dr. Doulaye Kone, who received the 2023 Development Award for practice for his work at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in the USA.
The NWSC, under Dr. Mugisha, has stood out as a model utility in the African region because of its exemplary achievements. The water service coverage is estimated at 78.6%.
The corporation also produces 120 million cubic meters of water per year from 51 water treatment facilities, which is distributed through 9,760 km of water.
Regarding financial performance, the corporation’s turnover has improved over time and stands at Shs388 billion per year with an overall collection ratio of 103%.
Drawing exceptional professionals from more than 140 countries, the membership of the International Water Association (IWA) brings together scientists, researchers, technology companies, water and wastewater utilities, and wider stakeholders involved in water management.
As the largest membership association for the global water sector, the Association was launched in its current identity in 2000, building on a 75-year heritage of connecting water professionals around the world. IWA is an international reference for the water and sanitation industry.
