Katakwi district gets Solar Grid and water supply scheme

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A new water supply scheme benefiting six villages has been launched in Katwaki.

The Orungo Corner Water Supply Scheme with a 9.2km distribution network was commissioned on Tuesday (March 11) by Vice President, Jessica Alupo, and Local Government Minister, Raphael Magyezi.

While in Katakwi, the VP and Magyezi also unveiled the Kanapa Solar Mini-Grid (16kW) with 41 connections.

(Courtesy)

(Courtesy)

According to Magyezi, the projects under the Local Economic Growth Support Project (LEGS) were funded by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), the Lives and Livelihood Fund (LLF), and the Government of Uganda.

Both projects will be managed by a local committee, ensuring community ownership and sustainability, according to a press release issued by Uganda Media Centre.

The water scheme supplying six villages:  Apuuton, Ayopo, Ameritele, Acera, Amukurat, and Orungo Corner, will benefit at least 4,024 people increasing safe water access in Katakwi District to 75.8%.

(Courtesy)

VP Alupo and Magyezi seated with pupils in the same tent. (Courtesy)

This 16kW solar project, comprising 28 high-capacity panels rated at 580W each and two 8kW inverters, is designed to support three-phase applications. 

The system operates on a prepaid model similar to Yaka, allowing users to access only the electricity they have paid for. So far, 41 connections have been established, benefiting approximately 34 households and businesses. 

According to Local Government, the project also promotes productive use of electricity through equipment such as three-phase grinding mills, electric motorcycles, and popcorn machines—demonstrating the potential of reliable power in stimulating small and medium enterprises.

Vice President Alupo, according to the release expressed excitement over the transformative Mini-Grid Shared Solar System in Kanapa, Opeta Village, Magoro sub-county. 

Addressing a group of Government officials and the local community at the commissioning events, Magyezi highlighted that such infrastructure projects are crucial in supporting Microfinance initiatives and local business growth.

“These initiatives are not just about access to electricity and water; they are about empowering communities, creating jobs, and fostering economic growth,” he stated.

He further directed the district administration to integrate these projects into the District Operation and Maintenance Plan to ensure their long-term sustainability.

Supervised by the Ministry of Local Government, under the LEGS project we are helping to strengthen rural infrastructure, improve household income and livelihoods, as well as develop climate-smart interventions along the agriculture value chains.