Residents of Rwabikondo Cell in Nyakabungo Town Council, Kanungu District, have pledged to continue protesting against the persistent water crisis in the area, demanding urgent intervention from district authorities to resolve the long-standing issue.
Speaking to the media on March 28, 2025, residents revealed that they are forced to rely on contaminated river water due to the abandonment of an unfinished water tank project in Katonga Parish, which was originally intended to improve access to clean water.
The locals explained that the few available clean water sources are so far away, making it difficult for many, especially the elderly and sick, to fetch water.
As a result, they are forced to rely on contaminated river water, putting them at risk of waterborne diseases.
“We wake up early and walk several kilometers just to fetch a few jerrycans of water. The elderly and sick cannot manage this,” the locals disclosed.
Benard Tumwesigye, a resident, stated that the only functional borehole is located miles away, placing a heavy burden on women and children who must walk long distances to fetch water.
Tumwesigye added that the community is forced to rely on contaminated river water due to the abandonment of an unfinished water tank project in Katonga Parish, which was initially intended to provide clean water access.
’’We have waited for years for this clean water tank project to be finished, but nothing has changed. The contractor abandoned it, leaving us to suffer,” Tumwesigye disclosed.
In response to growing pressure, the Kanungu District leadership and District Water Officer Ambrose Byaruhanga acknowledged the issue and stated that emergency measures, including water trucking, were being considered.
Byaruhanga added that the town council has partnered with Umbrella Uganda to implement a gravity flow water scheme, which is expected to be completed in the shortest time possible.
“We understand the urgency of the situation and are implementing short-term solutions while working to resolve the delays in the Katonga project,” he said.
Despite these assurances, residents remain skeptical and insist that without immediate action, they will continue their protests until their demands for clean and accessible water are met.
