Ntungamo District launches a solar-powered water project to address longstanding water scarcity.

 By Anthony Kushaba 

Authorities in Ntungamo District, in collaboration with the Ministry of Water and Environment, launched a solar-powered water system on Friday valued at 612 million shillings. This project is set to benefit residents of Murambi Parish in Rweikiniro Sub-county, a region long affected by water scarcity.

The launch, held in Ishanje Village, marked the handover of the construction site to Nexus Green, the contractor responsible for executing the project. Samuel Muchunguzi Rwakigooba, the Ntungamo District Chairperson, expressed the district’s commitment to improving access to clean and safe water for drinking and domestic use. He lauded the Ministry of Water and Environment, as well as development partners, for funding the project. Rwakigooba also commended local residents for donating land for the installation of the water source and pump house.

Dinah Tumwebaze, Ntungamo District’s Natural Resources Officer, who represented the Chief Administrative Officer, urged residents to support the project and help safeguard local resources. She called on the community to actively combat environmental degradation to ensure sustainable development.

Representing the Ministry of Water and Environment, Mariam Nakakande emphasized the importance of community support, acknowledging the positive reception and cooperation from local residents. “The active involvement of the district leadership and the residents has been invaluable,” she stated, urging them to continue supporting the contractors for quality completion of the project.

Ntungamo District Water Officer Prosper Butubuura highlighted the district’s ongoing efforts to expand piped water systems in underserved areas. “Access to clean water reduces the prevalence of waterborne diseases, ultimately improving the community’s health and economic productivity,” Butubuura explained. He noted that the new water system will serve several key institutions, including Embassy Junior School, Murambi Primary School, Murambi Market, Kibeho Church of Uganda, and Murambi Vocational School.

Project Engineer Billy Oruk of NEXUS Green assured residents of quality work, detailing plans for the installation of a pump house, a security guard room, solar power for the pump, fencing, a transmission line of 1.4 kilometers, a distribution line of 1.8 kilometers, and a reservoir tank. Oruk expects the project to be completed within eight weeks.

Local leaders expressed optimism about the project’s potential to alleviate water scarcity. Alex Abeneitwe, Local Council V councilor for Rweikiniro Sub-county, shared that the community is enthusiastic and committed to supporting the contractors. Rweikiniro Local Council III Chairperson Sebastian Bitariho noted that the system will be a welcome relief to the area.

The sentiment was echoed by residents like Joy Natukunda from Ishanje Village, who said, “This project is essential for us. We have been walking over two kilometers in search of clean water.” Abdallah Nsereko, Local Council I Chairperson for Ishanje Village, noted the urgency of the initiative, stating that locals had long relied on shared water sources with animals.

The launch event drew local leaders, clergy, and community members who gathered to witness a project they hope will transform daily life in their community by making clean water accessible for all.