The Rukungiri Municipality Member of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Elisa Rutahigwa, has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged Shs 55 billion ghost water project at Kahengye in Kebisoni Town Council.
The project, funded by the World Bank, was designed to benefit over 120,000 people in Rukungiri Municipality and parts of Ntungamo District. However, its implementation has been marred by delays and controversy.
Initially awarded to the Indian firm TECHNOFAB Engineering Services, the contract faced a major setback when the company abandoned the site in 2019, having completed only 65% of the work. Their work included installing a water pump, reservoir, and other infrastructure at River Kahengye critical components that remain incomplete.
In February 2020, the government contracted Vidas and Vambeco Engineering Companies to resume and complete the stalled works. After significant delays, the project was partially commissioned on November 23, 2022, by the Ministry of Water and Environment and subsequently handed over to the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC).
However, the final contractor was placed on a 12-month probation while NWSC conducted assessments. Despite these efforts, by the time of commissioning, the project’s total cost had ballooned to Shs 55 billion, with several components still unfinished.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament last week, MP Rutahigwa expressed deep concern over the project’s failure to deliver clean water to residents. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation by the Inspector General of Government (IGG), noting that even the areas receiving water do so in very limited quantities.
“Five years later, the people’s hopes have been dashed. The project has not fulfilled its purpose, and the Ministry of Water and Environment must be held accountable for handing over an incomplete project to NWSC’s Rukungiri branch,” said Dr. Rutahigwa.
CUE IN DR. RUTAHIGWA…….ON WATER PROJECT…….ENG//
Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, backed the call for accountability, instructing the Ministry of Water and Environment to present a detailed explanation. He noted that the Kahengye project has surfaced repeatedly in the news and was even raised during last year’s Kigezi Presidential PDM tour, where it was brought to President Museveni’s attention.
CUE IN TAYEBWA…….ON THE PROJECT….…ENG//
