President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has given his approval for the establishment of a prepaid water meter manufacturing plant in Uganda, marking a significant move toward enhancing access to clean water, promoting conservation, and improving utility service delivery across the country.
During a meeting with a delegation from Helcraw Electrical Pvt Ltd—a Zimbabwean company partnering with China’s Liaison Technologies—President Museveni was presented with a proposal to locally produce prepaid water meters in Uganda. The team was led by Brendon Jere, Director of Helcraw Electrical, who detailed how their systems have already delivered measurable success in Zimbabwe.
Jere explained that the introduction of prepaid water meters in Zimbabwe had empowered utility providers to collect revenue more efficiently while encouraging consumers to use water responsibly. He noted that the meters are designed to ensure users pay only for the water they consume, which improves transparency, fairness, and sustainability.
“The same model has worked in Zimbabwe and significantly improved access to water. We believe Uganda will benefit even more with localized production,” Mr. Jere stated.
President Museveni welcomed the proposal enthusiastically, noting that it aligns well with Uganda’s broader goals of expanding industrial capacity, generating employment, and ensuring citizens have access to essential services like water.
“This is a good idea. It will help our people access clean water while also creating jobs and supporting our industrial growth,” the President remarked.
To facilitate rapid implementation of the project, President Museveni instructed Hon. Haruna Kasolo, Minister of State for Microfinance, to coordinate with the relevant authorities to secure the necessary licenses and provide land for the construction of the manufacturing facility.
The initiative arrives at a time when Uganda is intensifying efforts to grow its manufacturing sector and increase local content in public service delivery.
The prepaid metering system is widely recognized as an effective way to curb water wastage, ensure fair billing, and boost revenues for water utilities, all while expanding equitable access to water.
In the same meeting, President Museveni also supported a separate proposal from Shapoorji Pallonji & Company Pvt Ltd to develop a bulk water supply system dedicated to irrigation in the Teso region. He emphasized the strategic importance of irrigation in enhancing agricultural productivity and water resilience.
“For me, irrigation is a top priority, and I shall support it,” the President asserted.
The prepaid meter factory, once operational, is expected to serve not only Uganda but also neighboring East African nations.
The development positions Uganda as a key player in smart water management technology, contributing meaningfully to the country’s industrialization agenda and sustainable development goals.
