Busia’s long battle with water shortages has taken a major turn with the commissioning of the Busia Water Supply and Sanitation Project, a milestone expected to transform life for over 186,000 residents.
The World Bank-funded project which was officially handed over to the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) for operational management by the Ministry of Water and Environment, promises full water coverage across Busia Municipality and extends 30% coverage to the wider district.
Anchoring the system is a modern treatment plant in Majanji, designed to produce 9,100 cubic meters of clean water daily, a capacity that can grow to nearly 13,000 cubic meters by 2040. Supporting infrastructure includes a 26.3-kilometer transmission main, a 12.5-kilometer distribution network, an elevated 1,720-cubic-meter reservoir in Dabani, and upgraded sanitation facilities, such as public toilets and a faecal sludge treatment plant.
Presiding over the technical commissioning, Permanent Secretary Dr. Alfred Okot Okidi applauded the milestone but reminded residents that while Lake Victoria provides the water, treating and distributing it requires significant resources. He urged the community to prioritize timely bill payments, maintain hygiene, and safeguard infrastructure. “We all have a part to play in keeping this system running, clean your water containers/tanks, empty your septic tanks before they overflow, and above all, protect the lake and the network that brings this water to your homes,” Dr. Okidi said.
Resident District Commissioner Mr. Kanuna Grace described the project as a game-changer for communities that have long endured salty or insufficient water supplies. He called on residents to take ownership of the facility and ensure its protection.
Receiving the facility on behalf of NWSC, the Director Operations for the Northern region, Dr. Charles Ekure highlighted the leap in supply capacity, from a measly 1,200 cubic meters per day to over 9,000. He said the new system enables a reliable, 24-hour supply and paves the way to extend services to other water-stressed areas, including Lumino. “We are counting on the community’s full cooperation, through timely bill payments and water conservation, to make this a lasting success,” Dr. Ekure added.
District and municipal leaders acknowledged that improved water access will unlock further development, allowing communities to plan and grow with confidence. The LCV Chairperson noted that reliable water access was once a major bottleneck to progress, but with this barrier removed, the future looks promising.
Busia South MP Hon. Godfrey Odero praised the project as a clear example of the government’s commitment to improving lives. “This is the NRM manifesto in action,” he said, applauding the dedication of the Busia Area NWSC team led by Area Manager Mr. Akampa Ronald. Hon. Odero also revealed that President Museveni is expected to officially launch the project once fully operational.
Throughout the event, speakers echoed the common theme of environmental care and community vigilance are critical to sustaining the gains. Residents were reminded to avoid farming near Lake Victoria, maintain sanitation standards, and guard against vandalism.
Closing the ceremony, Dr. Okidi left no room for doubt, “This facility belongs to you. Protect it, sustain it, and ensure no community in Busia is left behind when it comes to clean water.”
