VANESSA A
Residents of Kijengye and Karambi cells in Nyarutuntu Subcounty, Ntungamo District, are decrying water scarcity in their areas.
It is reported that the two cells have not benefited from the national water system, and the only reliable water sources available are ponds.
Speaking to our reporter, the chairperson of LC1 Kijengye Cell, Aron Rubarema, said they had received water in Nyarutuntu trading center, but, to their surprise, there is still no water. He added that residents travel long distances to collect water from nearby cells, putting them at risk of waterborne diseases.
Joshua Mwesigwa, a resident of Kijengye Cell, also emphasized the water scarcity issue, stating that they do not have a borehole or tap in their cell. He mentioned that they walk long distances to the nearest cells, where they have to pay people for water. He urged those responsible to intervene and provide reliable water sources in their area.
The Chairperson of LC1 Karambi Cell, Fuligye Tumwebaze, explained how the few spring water sources they have are difficult for the community to maintain. He stated that they only rely on ponds, which they share with animals. He also expressed that although they had received national water some years back, it was unreliable, frequently on and off, and was eventually discontinued.
Rwentaro Dan, a resident of Karambi, shared how during the dry season, the boreholes dry up, forcing them to travel long distances in search of clean water. He further explained that they have not benefited from national water and must collect rainwater during the rainy season, which often isn’t clean.
However, the Chairperson of LC3 Nyarutuntu Subcounty, Mwesigye John Wilson Katooma, speaking to our reporter, confirmed the water scarcity in Kijengye and Karambi cells, as well as in Nyarutuntu at large. He assured the residents that the matter has already been presented to the area Members of Parliament, who have promised to find ways of providing clean water to the community.
