NWSC Unveils New Plans To Modernise Lubigi Sewage Treatment Plant Through Research And Innovation
The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has announced plans to introduce new research, infrastructure improvements, and innovative waste management solutions at the Lubigi Sewage Treatment Plant in Kampala.The NWSC Managing Director, Dr. Silver Mugisha, outlined the new vision during an inspection of the facility, where he emphasised the need to strengthen the plant’s operations and ensure it remains effective in serving the city’s growing population.
Dr. Mugisha said the corporation is exploring ways to create more value from waste materials generated at the facility, including converting sludge into useful products rather than treating it as waste.Currently, some dried sludge from the plant is used by farmers as fertiliser, but NWSC plans to conduct further research to expand recycling opportunities and improve the economic benefits of waste reuse.The Managing Director also called for a detailed study comparing maturation ponds and constructed wetlands as alternative treatment systems. The research comes amid concerns over the gradual reduction of natural wetland areas that support wastewater treatment processes.
He said exploring improved treatment methods will help NWSC prepare for future expansion while protecting the environment and maintaining high standards of wastewater management.Dr. Mugisha praised Lubigi staff for their commitment but stressed the importance of regular maintenance to keep the facility operating efficiently. He directed improvements including replacement of ageing structures and upgrading access roads to improve safety and operations.Located in Rubaga Division along the Kampala-Hoima Road, the Lubigi Sewage Treatment Plant has played a key role in improving sanitation in Kampala since its commissioning in 2014.
The facility helps reduce pressure on the Nakivubo wetland and serves several communities, including Kawempe, Bwaise, Makerere, and Mulago National Referral Hospital.The plant treats both piped sewage and waste collected by vacuum trucks, with capacity to process up to 5,000 cubic metres of wastewater and 400 cubic metres of faecal sludge daily through a system of waste stabilisation ponds.However, the facility is currently operating close to its maximum capacity, increasing the need for new technologies and improved treatment approaches to meet future demands.NWSC says strengthening the Lubigi facility will not only improve sanitation in Kampala but also contribute to efforts aimed at protecting Lake Victoria from pollution by reducing the amount of untreated waste entering the environment.
