INTERN STUDENT
Leaders in Nyamunuka Town Council have raised alarm over deteriorating health conditions and increasing security threats, warning of the potential outbreak of diseases and rising crime in the area.
Speaking to our reporter, Yassin Mugisha, the Councilor for People with Disabilities (PWDs), highlighted the absence of public latrines as a critical health concern. Mugisha revealed that for seven years, the town council has lacked adequate facilities after the only public latrines were demolished during road construction. The land where the latrines stood, belonging to Elias Matsiko, the Chairperson of the Business Community, was repurposed.
Matsiko stepped in to construct a three-door latrine, which now serves the entire town, including residents, boda boda riders, chapati vendors, and passersby. However, Mugisha emphasized that the facility is insufficient for the growing population, forcing people to urinate in building corridors, which could trigger a disease outbreak.
Mugisha also expressed concerns over rising insecurity in the town, citing an increase in theft and violent muggings. He attributed this to rampant alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and a lack of coordinated security measures by local leaders. He called for urgent action to address these issues.
Elias Matsiko, while commending the efforts to address the challenges, confirmed that Nyamunuka relies solely on his private latrines for public use. He disclosed that he had offered free land to the town council for the construction of public latrines, but the council has yet to act. Regarding security, Matsiko pointed out that thefts often occur during church overnight prayers at Kisharira Parish but assured residents that measures are being taken to enhance security, including employing guards.
The Speaker of Nyamunuka Council, Yassin Katafa Byamukama, blamed the latrine shortage on the relocation of planned facilities to Kahenje Market by the Mayor, leaving Nyamunuka in a precarious state. He, however, expressed optimism about a joint effort with Matsiko to construct a new latrine on the donated land through community mobilization.
In response, Kahindi Sadara, the Mayor of Nyamunuka Town Council, dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. He insisted that the council has not reached the stage of prioritizing a public latrine due to the absence of a taxi park and the fact that most businesses already have their own latrines.
On security matters, Mayor Kahindi urged residents to coordinate with the police whenever public events are organized, ensuring adequate protection of lives and property. He also encouraged community members to participate in council meetings to stay informed and avoid misinformation.
As Nyamunuka continues to grow, the call for collaborative efforts among leaders and residents to address these pressing challenges remains louder than ever.
