SIMPSON M
Residents of Kasheeshe Parish in Buyanja Sub-County, Rukungiri District, are grappling with a severe shortage of clean water, a crisis they say is endangering their health and disrupting their daily lives.
Naboth Nahurira, one of the affected residents, lamented that persistent reliance on unsafe water sources has exposed the community to waterborne diseases such as typhoid, diarrhea, and dysentery. The situation has become particularly dire during the holiday season, making it challenging for mothers to prepare meals for their children as they spend long hours fetching water.
“The district’s failure to allocate funds for establishing new springs or rehabilitating existing ones has worsened the water scarcity. It is frustrating that the pipes installed in the area four years ago remain dry despite residents paying taxes,” Nahurira said.
Another resident, Kenneth Kahunda, highlighted the difficulties in accessing safe water, noting that most families have to wake up as early as 6:00 a.m. and walk approximately one kilometer to fetch water. This, he said, forces many to resort to open wells, increasing the prevalence of waterborne diseases.
“We are pleading with the relevant leaders to address our concerns and find a lasting solution to the water crisis,” Kahunda adde
Sylivia Turinawe, the councilor for Nyakabungo and Kasheeshe Parishes, acknowledged the water shortage and attributed it to low water levels in the area. She expressed concern for parents, who have been hit hardest by the lack of clean water during the holidays, and urged residents to remain patient as the district works on addressing the issue.
“I understand the frustration of the residents, but I ask for their patience as we engage with the relevant authorities to find solutions,” Turinawe said.
Babra Amumpaire, the manager of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation, revealed that her office had not received any formal complaints from Kasheeshe residents about the water crisis. However, she assured that she would visit the area alongside the works and social services team to assess the situation and take appropriate action.
“I will ensure that we look into this matter promptly and work with the relevant stakeholders to address the concerns of the community,” Amumpaire stated.
The residents of Kasheeshe Parish are hopeful that their plight will soon be resolved as they await concrete action from the district and other responsible authorities.
