The rainwater harvesting strategy for Uganda

This paper is a review of the study carried out to develop a national strategy for rainwater harvesting (RWH) in Uganda. RWH has been practiced over years although it had been treated as a ‘third-class’ water source in government policies and investment plans. The study assessed hindrances to utilisation of rainwater as one of the major sources, and the strengths that could be taken advantage of to promote its use. Seven districts in different climatic zones and regions were used for this study. RWH is possible throughout Uganda. However, the availability of suitable roofs varies between 28% and 95% for different areas. Affordable storage was modelled in different areas for household and communal facilities. RWH was recommended to increase safe water coverage where this is deemed low. The study recommends government participation in piloting investment in RWH, and provision of training support and subsidies.