Uganda Breweries Limited (UBL) has launched the Elgon Pamoja Partnership, a groundbreaking initiative to protect the Mt. Elgon water catchment and enhance water security in Uganda.
The program, unveiled during the 2025 Water and Environment Week, commits Shs1 billion over three years to support conservation and livelihood improvement in the Sipi Sub-Catchment, covering Kapchorwa, Bukwo, Kween, and Bulambuli districts.
A Landmark Investment in Sustainability
UBL’s Managing Director, Andrew Kilonzo, emphasized the importance of water as a critical resource for both the company and the communities it serves.
“Water is our most important ingredient. We understand how precious this resource is, and we are committed to protecting it for future generations,” Kilonzo said.
The initiative aligns with UBL’s water stewardship strategy, which focuses on water efficiency, replenishment, advocacy, and collective action.
Key Interventions
The Elgon Pamoja Partnership will implement nature-based solutions to address environmental challenges in the Mt. Elgon region. Key activities include:
- Soil and water conservation: Combating erosion and enhancing soil fertility.
- Afforestation: Increasing tree cover and supporting local tree nurseries.
- Biogas digesters: Reducing reliance on firewood and curbing deforestation.
- Rainwater harvesting: Improving water access for households and farms.
- Regenerative agriculture: Promoting long-term soil and water health.
- Farmer financing: Supporting sustainable farming practices.
- Small-scale irrigation: Enhancing water use efficiency.
Why Mt. Elgon Matters
The Mt. Elgon catchment is a vital water source for Uganda, supporting agriculture, biodiversity, and local communities.
However, environmental degradation, including deforestation and wetland encroachment, threatens its sustainability.
According to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda loses an average of 791 km² of wetlands annually. Without intervention, the country could lose all its wetlands by 2040.
Government and Partner Support
Dr. Alfred Okidi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water and Environment, praised UBL and AidEnvironment for their commitment to environmental conservation.
“I commend Uganda Breweries for their Shs1 billion contribution. This initiative is a model for public-private collaboration in addressing environmental challenges,” he said.
The program builds on AidEnvironment’s Green Future Farming project, funded by the IKEA Foundation, and its Harvest Health project, supported by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RvO).
A Call for Collective Action
James Kisekka, Country Director of AidEnvironment, highlighted the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in tackling environmental issues.
“Solutions to environmental problems require a united effort. This program demonstrates the power of partnerships between the private sector, civil society, and government,” Kisekka said.
Stakeholders at the launch urged other manufacturers to join the initiative, emphasizing that water catchments are shared resources requiring collective responsibility.
Aligning with Global Goals
The Elgon Pamoja Partnership contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 13: Climate Action
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
With support from the Ministry of Water and Environment, local communities, and development partners, the Elgon Pamoja Initiative is poised to deliver measurable improvements in water security, livelihoods, and environmental health.
For UBL, this initiative is more than a corporate responsibility—it’s a commitment to safeguarding Uganda’s natural resources for generations to come.
