EDITOR
Residents of Kigongi A Cell in Kabale Municipality are living in fear of waterborne disease outbreaks following reports that some of their main water sources are contaminated.
The concern was raised during the Central Division Budget Conference held today at the division’s main hall under the theme “Full Monetization of Uganda’s Economy through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialization, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation and Market Access.”
William Tumuramye, the LC1 Chairperson of Central Cell, said two springs in the area were initially closed after tests by the health department confirmed contamination. However, he noted that some politicians later reopened the springs, putting residents at risk of diseases such as typhoid and cholera.
Kabale Municipality Environmental Officer, Charles Ainebyona, confirmed that an inspection conducted jointly with the National Water and Sewerage Corporation found all tested springs unfit for use. He said while water from some springs could be made safe through proper cleaning and boiling, the Kigongi A spring would remain closed until sanitation in the area improves and follow-up tests confirm safety.
Ainebyona urged residents to improve hygiene and waste management practices to protect water sources from pollution.
Central Division Chairperson, Sam Arinaitwe, described the situation at Kigongi A spring as alarming, revealing that tests showed 98 percent contamination. He warned residents against using unsafe water and encouraged them to rely on National Water instead, noting that treating waterborne illnesses is far more costly than buying clean water.
Arinaitwe added that the division is working with National Water to install more tap stands within the community to ensure access to safe and affordable water, emphasizing that clean water supply will be a key priority in the upcoming budget.
