NELSON K
Residents raise concerns over severe water scarcity in Muraaro and Kinyamahwa cells, both in Kinyamahwa New Parish, Nyakagyeme Subcounty, Rukungiri District. They are calling for urgent government intervention due to an increased outbreak of waterborne diseases following longstanding use of unsafe water from ponds and rivers.
Speaking to Boona Radio, some residents from Muraaro Village, led by Vastine Ahimbisibwe, shared their experiences living without any clean water source. They reported that they have been accessing unsafe water from ponds and waterlogged areas that contain a lot of dirt and sediment.
Ahimbisibwe expressed frustration over the stalled Kahengye water project. She also confirmed the outbreak of waterborne diseases, noting that only one nearby village, Murambura, has a single clean water spring.
Muraaro LC1 Chairperson Kenneth Beyunga also said he fetches water from a pond he personally dug. He emphasized that the area lacks both taps and natural springs. In addition to the water crisis, he pointed out the long-standing electricity scarcity in the area, which further hampers development.
He called on the government to provide clean water sources and electricity to support the area’s economic development.
Greater Kahoko Parish Councillor Barugahare Johnson acknowledged the concerns but offered hope. He noted that a water tank is currently being constructed in Omukateero, Kengoma Cell by National Water. He assured residents that gravity-fed water will help resolve the longstanding water crisis.
Rukungiri District National Water Engineer Eng. Deus Twekwase told Boona Radio that residents of Kinyamahwa Parish had earlier rejected National Water’s offer to take over the water extension project, saying they were misled by some individuals who claimed National Water would impose high charges.
He appealed for cooperation from residents, urging them to collaborate with the National Water project to address the water scarcity challenge. He highlighted the ongoing water tank construction in Omukateero, Kengoma Cell and promised to carry out more research to identify additional urgent clean water sources as National Water prepares to fully resolve the issue.
