MUGABE R
Residents of Nyakizinga Sub County in Mitooma District, through their association Nyakizinga Connections, have launched a major environmental protection and sanitation campaign aimed at improving development in the area.
The initiative, which was rolled out on April 4, 2026, saw members plant fruit trees around public places such as churches, schools, and Nyakizinga trading centre. The group also began constructing a public toilet at the trading centre and plans to install dustbins to enhance cleanliness and public hygiene.
Nyakizinga Sub County LC3 Chairperson Richard Mujuni Kamugisha praised the association for its commitment to local development. He urged residents to take good care of the donated equipment and called on government to upgrade Nyakizinga trading centre to town council status, noting challenges such as limited staffing and the absence of essential services like electricity, a health facility, and clean water.
Religious leaders also welcomed the initiative. Rev. Benon Turinawe of St. Peters Nyakizinga Church of Uganda Parish in Bikungu Archdeaconry, North Ankole Diocese, applauded members for giving back to their community and encouraged others to emulate similar efforts.
Local leaders raised concerns about sanitation gaps. Andrew Barisigara, the Chairperson of the trading centre and Sub County NRM Chairperson, highlighted a shortage of toilets—estimated at 75 percent—and inadequate water supply, despite the area hosting weekly and monthly markets that attract many people, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.
Nyakizinga Connections Chairperson Polly Nuwagaba said the association is committed to promoting fruit tree planting to enhance food security, provide herbal resources, and improve environmental conservation. She also emphasized ongoing efforts to provide sanitation facilities and materials to support cleanliness.
Community members, including Miria Kyarikunda, head teacher of Nyakizinga Primary School, Pastor Evas Tusingwire of Daystar Nyakizinga, and trader Jona Ahimbisibwe, commended the initiative for raising awareness on health care and environmental protection, noting its positive impact on the community’s well-being.
