Aimed at resolving persistent water supply challenges in Kakumiro and its neighboring areas, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) is set to establish a state-of-the-art water treatment plant. This strategic initiative is bound to bring an end to the prolonged struggle with unreliable water sources.
The Kakumiro supply area, encompassing the towns of Kikora, Nalweyo, Kakumiro Main, Kasambya, Kisiita, Mpasana, and Nkoko, has long grappled with water scarcity due to dependency on low-yield boreholes. These boreholes, collectively producing around 300,000 liters of water per day, prove inadequate to meet the needs of the population. Furthermore, their output diminishes during the dry season, worsening the issue and resulting in water rationing and the emergence of dry zones.
While NWSC has implemented short-term interventions over the past year, the current water sources are deemed unsustainable for long-term requirements. Additionally, neighboring towns such as Igayaza and Kisiita, despite having sizable populations and thriving economic activities, remain underserved.
Taking charge of the situation, NWSC’s leadership, spearheaded by Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha, has initiated comprehensive feasibility studies and detailed designs for a new water supply system. This visionary project, boasting a capacity of approximately 1.5 million liters daily, aims to extract water from nearby surface sources and rivers, moving away from the unreliable groundwater sources.
The journey began with a rather significant meeting between NWSC Management and key local leaders, led by the Deputy Chief Administration Officer (D-CAO), Mr. Peter Erisu. The enthusiastic atmosphere depicted not only the project’s potential but also the unwavering determination to overcome water scarcity. This collaboration set a solid foundation for what could be a game-changer in Kakumiro’s water landscape.
Subsequent to the meeting, on-site assessments of potential water sources were done, guided by District officials. This vital interaction provided valuable insights into the region’s water dynamics and the challenges faced by residents. Traversing River Nkusi and River Kafu sources, along with potential pipeline routes and supply areas, illuminated the path toward sustainable solutions.
In the days ahead, the gathered insights and field assessments will shape the project’s design and implementation. Though the journey has just begun, the strides taken echo a promise of improved water accessibility and an enhanced quality of life for Kakumiro’s residents.
