INTERN STUDENT
Residents and local leaders in Kina Ward, Rwahi Rwentobo Town Council, are facing severe challenges due to water scarcity and poor road conditions. Fred Bindishanga, a resident of Kishorobo Village in Kina Ward, explained that villagers struggle to access clean water. He revealed that residents are forced to fetch dirty water from a deep valley, locally known as Omurusya, which was formed by heavy rains long ago. Bindishanga warned that the valley poses a risk of collapse, endangering those who collect water from it. He also highlighted that villagers must travel long distances to access clean water, increasing their risk of waterborne diseases.
Bindishanga further noted that the road from Ntungamo Girls’ AHA junction to Kizinga and then to Kishorobo Village is in poor condition, making transport of goods to market centers extremely difficult.
Speaking to Fred Barugahare, the LC1 Chairperson of Kishorobo Village, he confirmed that residents often travel over 2.5 kilometers in search of clean water. Barugahare explained that the parish lacks any suitable site for a spring or borehole. He mentioned that a borehole previously existed in the area but was destroyed and never repaired. He also noted that most social services are absent in the area despite residents participating in elections. He urged the government and relevant stakeholders to take urgent action, including extending piped water, warning that residents risk serious accidents while fetching water from the deep valley.
Edison Turyasigura, Mayor of Rwahi Rwentobo Town Council, acknowledged the water challenges in Kishorobo Village but explained that the town council cannot currently fund a water project due to a limited budget and lack of nearby water sources for extension. He noted that discussions are ongoing with district leaders to provide clean water to residents.
The Mayor attributed delays and poor service delivery in the town council to Joga Bright, the Town Clerk, alleging that Bright has failed to coordinate with local leaders since taking office in March of the last financial year. Edison claimed that while the council approves budgets for various projects, Bright has allegedly withheld funds to undermine him politically.
When approached, Town Clerk Joga Bright denied the allegations. He explained that Rwahi Rwentobo is a newly established town council with limited resources, making it difficult to finance all required services. Bright stated that UGX 22 million has been allocated for road construction in the current financial year. He also noted that LC1 councils received 25% of funds to support local activities such as “Burungi Bwasi.” Bright expressed optimism that town council services will improve, thanks to increased revenue from local taxes.
