NELSON K
Rukungiri Municipality Mayor, Charles Makuru, has called for urgent restoration and conservation of natural water springs following the continued inconsistency and failure of the Kahengye Water Project to provide a reliable water supply.
He made the remarks while addressing Eastern Division Councilors and other local leaders during a budget conference meeting held this afternoon at Christ the King Old Church building in Rukungiri Municipality. The meeting aimed to identify and submit priority areas for implementation in the 2026/2027 financial year budget.
Mayor Makuru expressed disappointment and frustration, noting that residents of Rukungiri have gone for nearly two weeks without access to Kahengye water. He questioned how a government project worth UGX 59 billion could fail to deliver consistent services, describing the situation as unfair to the community.
He emphasized that water access remains a top priority for residents who are now struggling to find alternative sources.
In his remarks, the Mayor urged council members to include water source protection and restoration among the key priorities in the upcoming budget. He also advised residents who had pinned their hopes on the Kahengye Water Project—currently under National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) to instead focus on reviving and conserving natural water springs, which can offer a more consistent and sustainable water supply.
Makuru cautioned against planting eucalyptus trees near water springs, explaining that the species consumes large amounts of water and can cause springs to dry up. He called upon local leaders to report anyone found planting trees near such critical water sources.
Meanwhile, Mayor Makuru revealed that the municipality is currently running some essential services temporarily, having handed over the implementation of several development projects to Horsemaid Company Limited. The company is expected to spearhead projects aimed at upgrading Rukungiri Municipality to city status over time.
He added that key initiatives including the construction of Rukungiri Central Market, installation of street lights, and town modernization projects will soon be undertaken by Horsemaid Company Limited. Additionally, Chico Company Limited is expected to return and complete pending road works, although the exact timeline for this is yet to be confirmed.
