INTERN STUDENT
Residents of Kashenyi Parish, Goma Sub-county in Rushenyi, Ntungamo District, have expressed concerns over the poor quality of essential social services, including inadequate access to clean water, unreliable electricity, and poorly maintained roads.
Speaking to reporters, Emmanuel Garuga, a resident of Omukacucu Village, lamented the lack of clean water in the area, revealing that residents rely on a single pond, which is also used by animals. He noted that attempts by the Ministry of Water to construct a piped water system in areas like Kizinga, Kigaga, and Mugyera were abandoned, leaving residents without access to safe water. Despite writing several letters to district leaders seeking help, Garuga said they have received no response.
On the state of roads, Garuga reported that construction work started in Nyakariro but was left incomplete when the district tractor was diverted to a coffee factory in Rwashamaire town, Kajara. The shoddy work that was done has rendered the roads impassable, making it difficult for residents to transport goods, access schools, hospitals, and markets.
Regarding electricity, Garuga revealed that the unfinished power supply lines have forced some residents to illegally disconnect wires from poles. He appealed to the government to expedite the completion of electricity in the area, which is vital for local businesses such as dairies and salons. Garuga blamed these challenges on local leaders, accusing them of failing to engage with residents or respond to their concerns.
Naboth Mpiridwe, a member of the district financial committee and LC5 councilor for Ntungamo Sub-county, acknowledged the frustrations of the residents. He criticized district engineers for abandoning community projects to pursue private work.
In response, Justus Bataringaya, the LC5 councilor for Goma Sub-county, confirmed that the district tractor has returned to Kashenyi to address the previously shoddy work. He also announced that the Ministry of Water will launch a new water project in Kigaga, worth UGX 450 million, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. The project has been awarded to Nexus Green Constructors Ltd.
Residents remain hopeful that these initiatives will address the challenges they face and improve the quality of life in their community.
