Transforming Lives with Sustainable Water Access in Uganda
In the heart of Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement in western Uganda, a significant shift is taking place. Two new solar hybrid piped water supply systems have been introduced, marking a turning point for thousands of refugees and host communities. These systems, funded by the European Union’s Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO) and implemented by UNICEF in collaboration with the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), are providing safe and reliable water to those who previously endured long, exhausting treks to access this basic necessity.
The innovative solar-diesel hybrid systems were completed in just three months, from July to October 2025, and are already serving populations in Clusters C and G of Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement. This settlement hosts approximately 165,000 refugees who have fled conflicts in South Sudan, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Kenya.
“I used to spend almost the whole day walking three kilometers to the water point,” shares Habib Ahmad, 30, who fled conflict in Sudan and arrived in January 2025. “Now, I just walk a few meters. It takes me 10 or 15 minutes, and I’m done. UNICEF and the donor European Union have solved our water problem. People were really suffering.”
This project highlights the European Union’s commitment to greening its humanitarian aid through sustainable and life-saving assistance to refugees and their host communities. Liam Kelly, the Head of EU Humanitarian Aid in Uganda, emphasized the importance of such initiatives:
“By investing in solar energy and resilient water systems, we are building a better future for the most vulnerable. It is also a good example of the nexus approach, where humanitarian and development actors work together to ensure a sustainable water supply for refugees and host communities.”
How the Systems Work
The hybrid systems draw water from deep production wells using submersible pumps, powered by 45 solar panels during the day and backed up by diesel generators at night or during cloudy weather. Water travels through 2.6-kilometer transmission lines to 108-cubic-meter hilltop reservoirs, then flows through 4.6 kilometers of distribution pipes to 22 public standposts where residents collect water free of charge.
Dr Robin Nandy, the UNICEF Representative to Uganda, expressed his gratitude to the EU Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations for their longstanding support of UNICEF’s humanitarian work.
“Our partnership with the European Union has been instrumental in providing the much-needed round-the-clock access to safe and clean water for refugees and host communities. Access to clean water is a fundamental right for children and their families. Now that the two systems have been completed, we are optimistic that the refugees and host communities will no longer have to trek long hours in search of this basic service,” Nandy explained.
Impact on Water Access
The impact on water access has been dramatic. Before the installation, the settlement’s water availability per capita had fallen to just 9 liters per person per day, well below the sphere standard of 20 liters. These new systems are expected to increase availability of water to at least 20 liters per person per day, meeting international humanitarian standards.
The project replaces costly water trucking that had been the primary source of water since the latest influx of refugees in 2023. The population surge outpaced existing infrastructure, forcing families into new settlement zones without water services.
Health and Social Benefits
Beyond improved access, the systems deliver significant health and social benefits. When water is available close to home, it will reduce the distance women and children, who traditionally bear the responsibility of water collection, have to travel to focus on other house chores, attend school, and participate in income-generating activities within the settlement. It also reduces the risk of disease and encourages handwashing, helping prevent diarrheal illnesses and skin infections within the community.
The water systems will also benefit 4,000 learners of Canrom Primary School in Kiryandongo Refugee Settlement, who will use the water for drinking, handwashing, and improve personal hygiene for all learners.