VANNESSA A
Residents of Bwambara Subcounty in Rukungiri District have raised concerns over severe water scarcity, which they say is putting their health at risk due to the possibility of waterborne diseases.
Several cells, including Kyikarara, Bwambara Trading Centre, Kyabahanga, Rushaaya, and Kyehunde, are facing a serious shortage of clean water.
Speaking to our reporter, John Charles, the LC1 Chairperson of Kyehunde Cell, stated that his area has only one spring, which serves a large population. He noted that residents spend long hours, sometimes even late into the night, waiting in line to fetch water.
He further emphasized the difficulty of accessing clean water, as there is no alternative water source in the area, and called on the government to intervene.
Bitress Busingye, LC1 Chairperson of Bwambara Trading Centre, and Guard Ntaro, a resident of the same area, echoed similar concerns. They stated that while the government had previously provided a few springs, they have since become damaged.
Despite raising their concerns with local leaders, no action has been taken. They highlighted that some residents resort to fetching water from the nearby national park, which is also used by animals, but they are often denied access to these sources.
Mugisha Batilimayo, the LC2 Chairperson of Bwambara Subcounty, confirmed the widespread water scarcity, adding that some cells have no springs at all, while others with a single spring must share it with neighboring communities.
He stated that they have reached out to the relevant authorities and remain hopeful that action will be taken to address the crisis.
However, Rukungiri District Water Engineer Deus Twekwase assured residents that efforts are underway to resolve the issue. He noted that water sources have already been established in Bwambara Town and that the district is working closely with Umbrella Uganda and the Ministry of Water and Environment. He expressed optimism that once funds are released, the problem in Bwambara Subcounty will be addressed.
