VANESSA A
Water scarcity continues to be a major challenge in Rwengwe Cell, Bushura Parish, Kirima Subcounty, Kanungu District, despite efforts by the North Kigezi Diocese in conjunction with Kinkiizi Diocese to provide a water source in the area.
It is reported that the area, with over 1,500 people, depends on only one functional spring. The gravitational water provided by the two dioceses (5 taps) has not been sufficient for the large population, leaving many residents still depending on unsafe water.
Speaking to our reporter, the Chairperson LC1 Rwengwe Cell, Polycap Byamukama, acknowledged that the available source cannot adequately serve the population.
He further explained that although they have potential water sources in the area, they lack funds to develop springs and boreholes, forcing residents to continue fetching water from moving sources shared with animals.
Amos Akatuhurira, a resident of Rwengwe Cell, echoed the same concern, noting that the area has only one functional spring with 5 taps. He said that since the area is hilly, more springs proportional to the population are urgently needed.
He further called on their leaders to provide more water services to ensure access to clean and safe water.
Dan Mugabe, another resident, said they struggle daily to access clean water. He noted that many residents were unable to benefit from the gravitational water system and still depend on water from dams, which poses serious health risks.
He also revealed that some springs in the area were destroyed when residents dug dams and have never been repaired, appealing for intervention from authorities.
However, speaking on the matter, the LC3 Chairperson Kirima Subcounty, David Kamahanga, confirmed they are aware of the problem. He said they have already written to the top district leadership to lobby for more funds to ensure all areas access clean water. He added that they have received positive assurances that the problem will soon be addressed.
