Summary:
- The project, valued at UGX 3.98 billion, will be implemented in two phases and is set to significantly improve access to clean water and sanitation for residents in the region.
KANUNGU: The Ministry of Water and Environment has unveiled a feasibility study and preliminary design for the Mpungu Water Supply and Sanitation Project, a transformative initiative aimed at addressing the persistent water challenges in Kanungu District.
The project, valued at UGX 3.98 billion, will be implemented in two phases and is set to significantly improve access to clean water and sanitation for residents in the region.
Speaking during the project presentation at Mpungu Sub-County Council hall on Thursday, Kanungu District Chairperson Eng. Sam Kajojo expressed deep gratitude to the Ministry for prioritizing the needs of the Mpungu community. He credited Hon. James Kaberuka, the area MP, for his leadership in fostering collaboration between the Ministry and the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), which enabled access to water through the national park.
“Water is life,” Kajojo remarked, highlighting the potential of the project to reduce the time women spend fetching water, allowing them to engage in community development activities that contribute to socio-economic transformation.
He also assured residents that outstanding payments related to tea issues would soon be resolved, alleviating economic pressures on the community.
Eng. Okello Wilfred, Manager of the Rural Water Supply Regional Centre 6, emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to working with various sectors to enhance community welfare through collaborative approaches.
Guma Nelson, Chief Warden of Mgahinga Bwindi National Park, reaffirmed the park’s commitment to supporting the project. He stressed the importance of integrating wildlife conservation into the planning process, particularly through an environmental impact assessment (EIA) due to the project’s proximity to the habitat of two gorilla families.
Nelson noted that the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park serves as a crucial water catchment area, supplying vital ecosystem services to nearly 93.7% of the Mpungu population. He urged stakeholders to balance project costs with environmental conservation and advocated for proper solid waste management to prevent water contamination.
Frank Farah Byaruhanga, District Speaker and Councillor for Mpungu Sub-County, underscored the urgency of the initiative.
“Water has been a challenge in the sub-county for years, and this project is long overdue,” he said.
Byaruhanga expressed optimism about the project’s implementation and reassured residents that the government would follow due procedures.
Mwajuma Twaha Adams, the Kanungu District Local Government Communications Officer, described the project as a significant step forward. She noted that the initiative aims to address the community’s critical water needs while promoting conservation efforts.
Mwajuma added that the project, which will benefit 15 villages, reflects the collective commitment of stakeholders to improving the quality of life for residents while protecting the region’s rich biodiversity.
