Clean water for over 5,000 residents in Kitagwenda district
UGANDA – In a transformative step for Kitagwenda District, more than 5,000 residents from eight villages in Ntara Sub County, Nyakacwamba Parish, now have reliable access to clean, safe water. This milestone was achieved through a piped water extension project jointly funded by Join For Water, Serengeti Energy, and its Technical Assistance Facility, and implemented by Joint Efforts to Save the Environment (JESE), with support from the Kitagwenda District Local Government.
The project, valued at UGX 448 millions (around 115,390.24 Euro), includes 12 public water stands stretching from Rwetuha to Nyakacwamba, benefiting villages such as Kalere, Mpanga, and Karubuguma. Beyond providing clean water, the initiative supports a broader five-year effort to conserve local water sources, restore ecosystems, and improve sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.
A collaborative success
The project’s commissioning brought together district leaders, sub-county officials, community members, and partners from JESE, Join For Water, and Serengeti Energy. Community members expressed heartfelt gratitude, with Mr. Twesigye Ben, Chairperson of Local Council 1 in Kalere, stating, “We’ve waited years for this, and we’re deeply thankful to Join For Water, JESE, and Serengeti for making it happen.”
Impacts on health and daily Life
The introduction of clean water is already transforming lives. Residents now have access to nearby water sources, reducing the burden on women and girls who previously walked long distances to fetch water. Many also anticipate a reduction in waterborne diseases such as typhoid and cholera.
Ms. Karen Low, Chief Environmental and Social Governance Officer at Serengeti Energy, highlighted the project’s significance for community well-being: “This project is especially meaningful for women and girls. By bringing water closer, we’ve not only eased their daily struggles but also improved their safety and health.”
Ensuring sustainability
To maintain the water system, a ten-member water user board has been formed. Residents will contribute UGX 100 per 20-liter jerrycan, ensuring funds are available for repairs. District leaders emphasized the importance of protecting the infrastructure, with District Chairperson Ismail Mushemeza urging the community to prevent vandalism and ensure proper maintenance.
Protecting water for the future
The project goes beyond immediate access to water; it also underscores the importance of environmental conservation. Resident District Commissioner Nicholus Nuwagira encouraged the community to protect local water sources and nearby swamps as part of broader climate change mitigation efforts.
A shared achievement
This initiative showcases the power of partnerships and community cooperation. By integrating clean water access with sustainable practices, Join For Water, JESE, Serengeti Energy, and Kitagwenda leaders have laid a strong foundation for lasting change. As access to clean water in Kitagwenda reaches 98%, the district stands as a model for collaborative and sustainable water resource management.
With the financial support of
