Museveni Backs Local Manufacturing of Prepaid Water Meters

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has endorsed the establishment of a prepaid water meter manufacturing plant in Uganda, marking a strategic move to enhance water access, conservation, and utility efficiency across the country.

The President made the announcement following a meeting with a delegation from Helcraw Electrical Pvt Ltd, a Zimbabwean firm working in partnership with China’s Liaison Technologies. The two companies specialize in prepaid water metering systems and have proposed setting up a local factory to serve Uganda and the broader East African region.

Leading the delegation, Helcraw Director Mr. Brendon Jere outlined how their prepaid metering model has already improved water access and revenue collection in Zimbabwe. “Prepaid water meters empower consumers to pay for what they use, encouraging responsible consumption while enabling utilities to operate sustainably,” Jere noted.

President Museveni welcomed the proposal, calling it a timely initiative aligned with Uganda’s industrialization agenda, job creation goals, and efforts to improve essential service delivery.

“This is a good idea. It will help our people access clean water while also creating jobs and supporting our industrial growth,” Museveni said.

To fast-track the investment, the President directed the Minister of State for Microfinance, Hon. Haruna Kasolo, to coordinate with relevant agencies to facilitate land acquisition and licensing for the project.

The development comes at a time when Uganda is pushing to expand its local manufacturing base and reduce reliance on imports, particularly in sectors such as water and energy.

In the same meeting, President Museveni also approved a proposal by Shapoorji Pallonji & Company Pvt Ltd to establish an integrated bulk water supply system for irrigation in the Teso region. He reiterated his commitment to advancing irrigation as a cornerstone of Uganda’s agricultural strategy:

“For me, irrigation is a top priority, and I shall support it,” the President affirmed.

The prepaid water meter plant is expected to not only meet Uganda’s domestic needs but also serve neighboring countries, positioning Uganda as a regional leader in smart water management technologies.