NELSON K
Severe water scarcity has gripped several villages in Kisiizi Parish, Nyarushanje Subcounty, Rukungiri District, leaving residents in Biturwa, Rwegongo, Binyena, Kamoga, and Kanyinya struggling to access clean water.
Local leaders and residents have expressed deep concern over the ongoing challenge, which is particularly affecting households located in the hilly terrain of the region. The scarcity has forced children to trek long distances in search of water, with some resorting to unsafe sources like ponds and stagnant streams.
Community leaders highlighted the growing burden on local families and schools, stressing the urgent need for a reliable water supply. The situation is further compounded by the lack of electricity, which residents say has stalled efforts to develop infrastructure that could ease the water crisis.
In response to these concerns, Nyarushanje Subcounty LC3 Chairperson Michael Musiime acknowledged the issue and cited the difficult terrain as a major challenge in extending services. He pointed to the Kimbugu-Rwakaraaba project and a potential source in Nyakishenyi as possible solutions under consideration. However, technical teams have yet to conduct on-ground assessments to confirm their viability.
Musiime also encouraged residents to consider settling in less elevated areas to improve access to essential services such as water and roads.
As the crisis deepens, residents are calling on government bodies and local leaders to prioritize water access in rural hilly communities to prevent further suffering.
