SIMPSON M
Residents of Nyarushanje Subcounty in Rukungiri District have raised concerns over an impending health crisis in Kalama Market, located in Bunono Parish, due to the lack of sanitation facilities, particularly public toilets.
Despite being a busy center for commerce and community activity, Kalama Market lacks adequate sanitation facilities to meet the needs of its visitors.
Residents and marketgoers, led by Sayuni Bruce and Pauson Kajere, emphasized the urgent need for a toilet in the market. They noted that on market days, the facility accommodates over 500 people, yet there are no toilet facilities available. They recalled that a single toilet once served the market, but it became full and has never been replaced, putting people’s health at risk.
They expressed concerns about the potential spread of diseases, especially during peak trading hours when sanitation facilities are most needed.
Richard Barekye, the chairperson of Kalama Market, echoed the need for improved sanitation. He explained that a well-wisher had previously donated a toilet to the market, but later removed the iron sheets, rendering it unusable. As an interim measure, the community dug a small hole and covered it with sacks for temporary use, hoping that leaders would address the issue, but their efforts have been in vain.
Barekye stated that he had informed the concerned leaders about the dire situation. However, despite multiple visits and promises, no action has been taken, leaving market users in deplorable conditions and at constant risk of contracting illnesses.
He called for urgent intervention from leaders, emphasizing that they collect taxes from the market and should prioritize the well-being of residents.
In response, the Health Inspector for Nyarushanje Subcounty, Mr. Godwil Muzoora, acknowledged the crisis and affirmed the urgent need for improved sanitation in Kalama Market. However, he cited financial constraints as a major obstacle to immediate intervention.
He explained that there had been plans to construct a toilet in the market, but when toilets at Kibizi Primary School collapsed, the funds were redirected to addressing that emergency.
Muzoora assured residents that he would submit a report to the subcounty chief to find an immediate solution for Kalama Market. Meanwhile, he urged marketgoers to use the temporary facility available as they work towards a permanent solution.
