NELSON K
Bwambara residents have today raised concerns over the worsening water scarcity in the area following the failure of the Kateramo water project to efficiently supply clean water.
Residents, together with their local leaders, told Boona Radio that they no longer have reliable clean water sources since the project sometimes takes three weeks or even months without pumping water.
The Kikongi LC1 chairperson, Mr. Mubangizi Zeferiano, said residents are suffering with the crisis as it takes weeks or months without accessing clean gravitational water from the project. He noted that even when water is available, it only lasts for less than two hours before a shortage occurs, leaving residents stranded and forcing them to rely on insufficient springs, ponds, rivers, and wetlands.
During an assessment, technical officials informed the residents that the main challenge is insufficient power to pump water to different parts of the area. They said the project requires hydro-electric power since solar systems and generators have failed to sustain operations.
Residents led by Amumpeire Onesmus also criticized the government for failing to provide essential social services, requesting the establishment of permanent and reliable water sources.
The Kikongi parish LC2 chairperson, Mr. Bahaati William, echoed the concerns, saying residents spend three to five weeks without clean water. As a result, they are forced to fetch water from rivers, wetlands, and ponds or buy bottled water for drinking. He further criticized the current leadership in Rujumbura, accusing them of failing to lobby for hydro-electricity to support such community projects.
Boona Radio also reached out to the Bwambara district councilor, Mr. Ntungura Gideon, to comment on the Kateramo water project challenges. However, he declined to provide information, insisting he was busy in his office.
