Karamoja to get multi-purpose dams

Mar 09, 2011

THE Government is to construct five multi-purpose water dams in Karamoja region.

By Olandason Wanyama

THE Government is to construct five multi-purpose water dams in Karamoja region.

Edward Eko, the Moroto district assistant chief administrative officer, told New Vision on Saturday that the dams will help reduce conflicts over water and grazing grounds among residents.

Eko said the Government would compensate families affected by the development.

“We have to do a lot of mobilisation. The communities need to understand the need for development initiatives in the area,” Eko said.

He called for the resettlement of the affected communities.

Eko also disclosed that the Ugandan and Israeli governments would fund construction of the dams in Moroto and Napak districts.

The Katikekile dam would cover over one kilometre with a height above 50 metres.

Eko said Lia Primary School in Moroto Municipality, the museum, Gum Arabic offices and part of Singila village and Katikekile sub-county headquarters would be affected by the development.

Michael Etyang, the assistant commissioner in-charge of Karamoja projects, said a preliminary survey report would help them know where to start.

“We shall start with construction sites with fewer problems and end with areas that require compensation,” Etyang said.

Residents have however, described the move as upsetting since they have lived in the area for a long time. Experts say Karamoja continues to experience food insecurity and cattle rustling because its agricultural potential has not been fully exploited.


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