VANESSA A
Residents of Ruhega Cell in Kyatoko Ward, Eastern Division of Rukungiri Municipality, are grappling with a serious water shortage, with the situation in Ruhega—located on hilly terrain—being particularly dire.
LC1 Chairperson of Ruhega Cell Winnie Kyarimpa, told our reporter that residents trek long distances in search of clean water due to the limited number of spring water sources, most of which are far from their homes. She appealed to leaders for urgent intervention, expressing frustration that their votes have yet to translate into meaningful change.
Sunday Nelson, a local resident and the defense secretary of Ruhega Cell, also voiced concern about the water crisis. He revealed that they often share water sources with animals, exposing them to waterborne diseases. As a coping mechanism, many families have resorted to collecting rainwater in drums—an option he noted is unsafe.
Kyatoko Ward Councilor Bamanyisa Christopher Kashaija, acknowledged the widespread water scarcity across the ward, noting that while some areas had received water tanks, others like Ruhega remain neglected. He called on the government to urgently intervene by extending gravity-flow water systems to address the persistent crisis.
In response, Eastern Division LC3 Chairperson David Tumwesigye confirmed the water shortage in Kyatoko Ward. He, however, assured residents that National Water and Sewerage Corporation had pledged to address the issue and that follow-ups are underway to ensure residents soon gain access to clean and safe water.
