MICHAEL N
Ntungamo district leaders have called for urgent conservation of wetlands and protection of water bodies as a pathway to improving agriculture through irrigation and ensuring reliable access to domestic water.
Speaking during the district’s engagement ahead of the 2025 General Elections, the Ruhaama East Constituency NRM flag bearer, Hon. Beatrice Rwakimari, highlighted the daily struggle many households face in accessing clean water. She noted that in several villages, the little water available is shared with animals, exposing residents to waterborne diseases and high treatment costs.
Rwakimari emphasized the need for government to safeguard rivers, lakes, and swamps within the district and use them as sources for piped water systems to support both home use and irrigation.
Rushenyi County Member of Parliament, Hon. Naome Kabasharira, echoed this appeal, pointing out that rivers such as River Kagera could be harnessed to supply water for livestock and irrigation. She explained that many cattle keepers in Rushenyi trek long distances to reach water points, a situation that could be addressed through improved water infrastructure.
Goma Sub-county LC5 Councillor, Justus Batarigaya, also noted that residents in his area often transport water on motorcycles from distant sources because of limited access. He urged government to utilize nearby rivers to supply water to communities that are facing scarcity.
In Kajara County, the NRM flag bearer James Hunter Tukahirwa Byenjeru expressed disappointment with the Kahengye Water Project, which he said has failed to benefit residents despite the project’s proximity to the Kajara–Rukungiri border. He argued that such water sources should be instrumental in supporting farmers with irrigation water.
Reading the Ntungamo District Memorandum during President Museveni’s visit, NRM District Chairperson Janet Kataaha Museveni underscored the importance of conserving Lake Nyabihoko, which she said could serve as a vital water source for communities in Kajara and Rushenyi.
While addressing thousands of residents gathered at Kyamate Secondary School on 27th November 2025, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to wetland protection and the distribution of water to households. He said that conserving natural water sources remains central to plans to expand irrigation and enhance agricultural productivity across the district.
