Senior Reporter
Authorities in Bushenyi District issued a warning on Monday cautioning residents against employing poor farming methods and encroaching upon water catchment areas to safeguard the wetlands.
Various human activities such as farming, sand mining, brick making, and construction have been identified as posing threats to water catchment areas in the District.
This concern was raised during a site meeting held at the Warigo water project situated in Nyakabingo village, Kakanju sub-county in Bushenyi District.
Mr. Robert Atuhairwe, the Bushenyi District RDC, has directed all security personnel to undertake a stringent operation and apprehend those encroaching upon water catchment areas.
He emphasized that the project aligns with the President’s manifesto of extending water access to every Ugandan, stressing that environmental protection should be a primary concern for all Ugandans.
Dr. Silver Mugisha, the Managing Director of NWSC, suggested that leaders explore alternative means, particularly in villages, highlighting the entity’s mandate to extend water services to towns.
Eng. Sam Kigundu, the area manager of NWSC Bushenyi, stated that efforts are underway to ensure water reaches all corners of the District. He mentioned that while the construction of the project is nearing completion, there is an additional phase focused on catchment protection for both Warigo and Kitagata. Sensitization initiatives are being carried out to discourage activities such as bricklaying and sand mining near riverbanks, which pose threats to water levels.
Jafari Basajjabalaba, the Bushenyi District chairman, pledged to collaborate with other stakeholders to safeguard water catchment areas.
Regarding the project:
Construction of the Warigo water project in Nyakabingo village, Kakanju sub-county, Bushenyi District, commenced in 2022 at a total cost of 11.8 billion Ugandan shillings. Executed by Muhick International Ltd and Achui Sijian Holding Group Company Ltd, the project aims to supply water to the entire District.
