MICHAEL N
Residents and local leaders in Rubaare and Rugarama sub-counties, Rushenyi County in Ntungamo District, have expressed concern over the prolonged delay in completing a vital water supply project.
The water channel, sourced from Kahama in Nyabushenyi, Kajara, has remained incomplete for over eight years. Initial work, including trench digging and pipe installation, was undertaken, but construction stalled shortly after, leaving communities without access to clean and reliable water.
Rubaare Sub-county LC3 Chairperson, Coleb Tindimwebwa, criticized the government for failing to complete the project despite significant financial investment. He noted that residents have lost hope, as water scarcity continues to pose a serious challenge in the area.
Seezi Muhangi, the LC5 District Councillor-elect for Rubaare Sub-county, echoed similar concerns. He highlighted that communities, particularly in Omungenyi and Nyaryanya parishes where the pipeline passes, are still struggling with inadequate access to clean water.
Ntungamo District LC5 Chairperson, Samuel Muchunguzi Rwakigoba Salongo, attributed the delays to disagreements between National Water and Umbrella Uganda, as well as political misunderstandings between leaders in Rushenyi and Kajara. He explained that the project could have been completed years ago, noting that a similar initiative in Kajara was successfully launched using the same water source.
Rushenyi Member of Parliament, Hon. Naome Kabasharira, also weighed in on the matter, accusing former MP Hon. Mwesigwa Rukutana of failing to adequately follow up on the project. She revealed that upon assuming office, she found that several projects in the constituency had been diverted elsewhere.
Kabasharira further stated that ongoing disputes between National Water and Umbrella Uganda over ownership of the project have significantly contributed to the delay. Despite these challenges, she assured residents that efforts are underway to resolve the issues and ensure completion of the water supply system.
She acknowledged that water scarcity has long been a pressing issue in Rushenyi and called for patience from residents. The MP also revealed plans to explore alternative solutions, including drilling water from Nyabihoko Lake, following a memorandum she submitted to the President.
Leaders remain hopeful that with renewed efforts and coordination, the long-awaited project will eventually be completed, bringing relief to the affected communities.
