KAMPALA, UGANDA – Centenary Bank and Water.org have unveiled a UGX 30 billion ($8m) partnership to provide affordable financing for clean water and sanitation solutions in Uganda.

The initiative aims to benefit 13,000 households nationwide, addressing the country’s pressing issue of access to safe drinking water.

Centenary Bank’s Managing Director, Fabian Kasi, emphasized the importance of collaboration: “This partnership promotes water supply and sanitation programs, enabling people to access finance for clean water.”

Water.org has provided a USD 200,000 grant to support operational costs, including staff training.

Francis Musinguzi, Regional Director of Water.org, highlighted the organization’s commitment: “We’re proud to work with Centenary Bank to bring more finance into the water and sanitation sector.”

The initiative aligns with Centenary Bank’s green financing strategy, including solar energy and environmentally friendly loans.

Uganda’s Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr. Callist Tindimugaya, welcomed private sector investment: “Innovative financing programs are crucial to address the growing need for safe drinking water.”

Uganda’s water crisis is a pressing concern, with rural access at 67% and urban access at 72%. The partnership seeks to bridge this gap by providing affordable financing options.

Beneficiaries will access financing for water collection systems, boreholes, and supply connections. Centenary Bank’s WASH loan product will be integrated into its green financing portfolio.