UBOS Launches Africa Statistics Week, Calls for More Investment in Water and Sanitation

What the report says

The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has launched Africa Statistics Week and used the occasion to urge greater investment in water and sanitation services. In remarks reported by SoftPower News, the agency warned that unsafe drinking water remains a major public health concern, especially in rural areas where communities are more exposed to waterborne disease.

According to the report, Dr Vincent Fred Ssennono, UBOS deputy executive director, said improved access to water sources should be matched with broader efforts to improve sanitation. The warning highlights the continuing development challenge of providing basic services that can reduce illness and support healthier living conditions.

SoftPower News said the appeal was made as part of activities marking Africa Statistics Week, a regional observance that promotes the use of data in planning and decision-making. While the article does not provide a full policy response, the message underscores why statistics matter: they can help authorities track service gaps, prioritize investment and target communities most in need.

The broader context is that water and sanitation remain persistent infrastructure and public health issues in Uganda. UBOS’s call adds to ongoing discussions about how government and partners can use evidence to guide spending and improve access to essential services.