Thousands of residents in Mbarara and neighbouring Isingiro districts are expected to experience water supply disruptions following the planned shutdown of the Kagera treatment water plant.
The National Water and Sewage Corporation (NWSC) Mbarara area said the plant will be shut down for 12days, from 1st to 12th October 2026 to allow engineers to carry out system reconfiguration and infrastructure upgrade works.

According to NWSC, the works are intended to improve water production and distribution, integrate new distribution networks and enhance the reliability of water supply system in the southwestern corridor. 
Technical teams will also undertake maintenance and structural adjustments aimed at improving hydraulic flow and service stability.

The shutdown is expected to affect several areas in Mbarara City and Isingiro District, including Katete Central, Rwemirizi, Karugangama, Bihunya, Kitebero, Rubeho, Karubanda, Kabaare villages I-VII, Kashenyi, Rwakiruri, Masha sub county, Nyamisindo, Kaberebere Town council, Nyakakoni, Kacence,Lubirir, Rwobuyenje, Rwebishuri, Nyakiziba, Nyakabungo, Butagatsi, and surrounding areas.

The corporation said in a notice:
“NWSC wishes to inform you that the Kagera water treatment plant will be temporarily shut down for 12 days, from Thursday, October 1st 2026 to Monday, October 12th 2026. This planned shut down is to allow system reconfiguration works at Kagere water works, aimed at improving to our customers.”

NWSC advised customers in the affected areas to store sufficient water before the shutdown and use it sparingly during the maintenance period.
The corporation said the overhaul is necessary to address persistent low-pressure challenges and improve water supply to growing settlements.
The Ruharo and Rebikoona water treatment plants will provide alternative supply during the supply, although NWSC said both systems also face low low-pressure supply.

NWSC said water supply will be restored progressively after the works are completed on October 12th, as the distribution network will require time to repressurize and stabilize.
The corporation apologized to customers for the convenience caused by the shutdown and said the works are intended to improve the reliability and quality of water service in the affected areas.