The African Water and Sanitation Academy (AWASA) was officially launched on February 16, 2025, during the 22nd African Water and Sanitation Association (AfWASA) Congress and Exhibition held at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, Uganda. This significant event marked a milestone in Africa's commitment to enhancing water and sanitation services across the continent.

AWASA, headquartered at the National Water and Sewerage Corporation's (NWSC) International Resource Centre in Bugolobi, Kampala, aims to serve as a center of excellence. Its primary mission is to build the capacity of managers and decision-makers in the water and sanitation sector throughout Africa. The academy focuses on leadership development and change management, integrating scientific, technical, and governance aspects to address the continent's unique challenges in this sector.

The establishment of AWASA is a collaborative effort between the Government of Uganda and AfWASA. In September 2024, Uganda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Abubakar Jeje Odongo, and AfWASA President, Eng. Dr. Silver Mugisha, signed a host country agreement to formalize Uganda's role as the academy's host nation. This partnership underscores Uganda's dedication to improving water and sanitation services and highlights its strategic position in leading capacity-building initiatives on the continent.

During the launch, President Yoweri Museveni, represented by Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Nakadama, emphasized the critical role of AWASA in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, which aims to ensure the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all. He highlighted the necessity for homegrown solutions, continuous research, and competence-based skills development to overcome the diverse challenges facing Africa's water and sanitation sector.

AWASA is poised to collaborate with regional centers across Africa, fostering innovation and sharing best practices to elevate the performance of water and sanitation utilities. By focusing on leadership and change management, the academy aspires to transform the sector, ensuring sustainable and equitable access to water and sanitation services for all Africans.