Piped water brings relief to Nakasongola’s drought-hit communities

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Thousands of residents in Nakasongola district are now gaining access to clean and safe water following the launch of a sh3.2 billion piped water project by World Vision Uganda.

The initiative aims to alleviate water scarcity and curb waterborne diseases in Uganda's drought-prone cattle corridor by improving water access, enhancing hygiene and education, and expanding economic opportunities.

The Nabiswera Nakitoma water Scheme that has a capacity of pumping 105,000 litres. (Courtesy)

The Nabiswera water scheme that cost sh1.7b. (Courtesy)

For years, residents of Nakasongola district have depended on unsafe water sources such as swamps and unprotected wells, leading to frequent outbreaks of diseases like cholera and diarrhoea, especially in rural communities.

The newly installed water schemes in the sub-counties of Nabisweera and Kalongo are expected to serve more than 22 villages, improving access to clean water for over 22,000 residents.

The Kalongo water pump has a capacity of 60,000 litres, supplying fresh water within an 11-kilometre radius, while the Nabisweera water pump boasts a 100,000-litre capacity, serving residents across a 25-kilometre distance. The official inauguration of the Kalongo and Njeru piped water projects took place on March 20 and 21, with support from World Vision Uganda.

According to James Kaawa, programmes director at World Vision Uganda, the two water schemes will supply safe drinking water to seven villages, benefiting schools, churches, and households.

“The goal of these projects is to provide clean and safe water to underserved communities in Kalongo Sub-County. Previously, schoolchildren spent hours fetching water instead of focusing on their studies. This initiative will save them time and improve their education,” Kaawa noted.

He further emphasised the broader impact of the project: “We also hope this will improve health, economic empowerment, and development by giving people the opportunity to access clean water more easily.”

The newly constructed piped water systems will also serve two additional sub-counties—Nabisweera and Nakitoma—expanding coverage to at least 15 villages. These systems will significantly reduce reliance on contaminated water sources, which previously posed severe health risks.

Nakasongola district water officer, Hussein Mulondo, highlighted the dire water situation before the intervention.

“Kalongo sub-county previously had only one borehole, forcing residents to rely on swamp water. This project has addressed that problem by increasing the number of access points from one to over 15, ensuring that schools, churches, and health facilities now have piped water systems,” Mulondo stated.

Butebo County Member of Parliament, Bernard Ssekyanzi Kirya, underscored the initiative’s role in supporting the region’s livestock farming, a key economic activity.

“Before this project, people competed with animals for water. This scheme will boost livestock production and agricultural activities,” Ssekyanzi said.

The scarcity of clean water has long been a challenge for communities in the district, with many residents forced to share water sources with animals. The newly established water infrastructure aims to alleviate these hardships, promoting better sanitation and public health.

Local leader, Augustus Bandikubi, of Kalongo sub-county, stressed the positive impact on public health.

Students of St Kizito Kalongo RC entertaining the congregation. (Courtesy)

“With clean water, we expect better hygiene practices and fewer sanitation-related diseases like cholera and diarrhoea,” Bandikubi remarked.

Beyond health benefits, Bandikubi pointed out that easier water access would enhance child safety, particularly for girls, who often bear the responsibility of collecting water.

“Children, especially girls, had to walk long distances to fetch water. This exposed them to danger. With water now closer to the communities, we expect fewer cases of defilement and early school dropouts,” he added.

With the capacity to provide safe drinking water across multiple villages, the World Vision Uganda-supported project marks a significant step toward sustainable development, improved public health, and enhanced livelihoods for the people of Nakasongola.