By : Mary Nassali, Commercial Excellence Director, Coca-Cola beverages
On any given day in Kampala, it is increasingly common to see people carrying bottled water in taxis, offices, construction sites, restaurants, and homes. What was once viewed as a convenience for travel or special occasions has steadily become an everyday necessity.
As urbanisation expands and lifestyles evolve, consumers are placing greater emphasis on hydration solutions they can trust. Access to safe drinking water is no longer just about availability—it is about quality, convenience, and confidence.
Brands such as Rwenzori Pure Natural Mineral Water are becoming more visible in daily routines, reflecting a growing demand for safe, consistent, and high-quality hydration options throughout the day.
Trust has emerged as a key factor influencing consumer choice. Today’s consumers want assurance that the water they drink is produced under strict quality standards and handled responsibly across the supply chain. This growing demand for reliability has positioned bottled water as a preferred option for many urban dwellers.
Uganda’s bottled water market has experienced significant growth in recent years. The sector now includes approximately 100 stock keeping units across 59 brands, generating an estimated UGX 400 billion in annual turnover.
Equally important is the shift in how bottled water is consumed. Previously associated with travel or special events, it is now integrated into everyday life. Hydration happens across multiple settings, each requiring the right packaging format at the right time.
A commuter may prefer a small, portable bottle that fits easily into a bag, while families and offices often require larger formats that provide a longer-lasting supply. This diversity of consumption occasions has driven innovation within the category.
Globally and across Africa, similar trends are evident. Uganda ranks among the countries with the highest bottled water consumption on the continent, averaging about 70 litres per person annually—an indication of how integral packaged water has become to modern urban living.
In response, beverage companies are expanding their product portfolios to meet evolving needs. At Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda, the Rwenzori Pure Natural Mineral Water range reflects this shift by offering options tailored for both on-the-go use and take-home consumption.
The introduction of the 10-litre pack is one such example. Designed for families, offices, and small gatherings, it offers a practical, affordable, and reliable solution for consumers who require a steady supply of drinking water without frequent store visits, while maintaining trusted quality standards.
As consumers continue to prioritise purity, safety, and consistency, trusted brands will play an even more critical role in shaping the category.
With cities expanding and lifestyles changing, access to safe drinking water remains fundamental to public health and daily life. Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda remains committed to delivering high-quality water that is safe, accessible, and affordable across all consumer touchpoints.
