VANESSA A
Residents of Katate and Birare cells in Bikongozo Parish, Nyakyishenyi Subcounty, Rukungiri District, are crying out over the persistent water scarcity in their area.
It is reported that there was a Mabindi Water Project under Nescas Green in the same parish, but it did not supply water to several cells, including Katate, Birare, Nyabitekyere, and Rwangyeru.
Speaking to our reporter, the LC1 Chairperson of Katate cell, Mr. Gelevazi Turinawe, said they have struggled with water scarcity for a long time, walking long distances to fetch water from Karugazi cell.
He added that the water source in Karugazi is shared by three overcrowded cells and consists of only one tap. He noted that the available springs are located far away and appealed for support to extend water access to the underserved cells.
Similarly, the LC1 Chairperson of Birare cell, Mr. Denis Ishungyisa, expressed concern, stating that their cell is situated in a hilly area and did not benefit from the Mabindi Water Project. He explained that residents walk long distances to access clean water.
He further explained that during the rainy season, people dig large holes to collect water, but this becomes muddy and unreliable when it doesn’t rain for two or three days. He added that such water is not safe for consumption.
Annet Kemigisha, the Women Chairperson of Bikongozo parish, also expressed her frustration, saying they are suffering greatly in their efforts to access clean water. She noted that only Karugazi cell has consistent access, and children have to walk long distances to fetch water from a spring, often returning home late in the evening after school.
She added that this affects their daily schedules, as they must first fetch water before attending to gardens, sometimes not arriving until midday. She called upon the government and relevant leaders to urgently intervene and provide clean water services to the affected cells.
However, speaking on the matter, the LC3 Chairperson of Nyakyishenyi subcounty, Mr. Twinomujuni Wednesday, acknowledged the issue of water scarcity affecting various cells in Bikongozo parish. He assured the public that he has already engaged the District Water Engineer and promised that, within this financial year, people will gain access to clean water.
He urged the affected residents to be patient, assuring them that the issue will be addressed as soon as possible.
