The anticipation in Kalungu and its neighboring areas is intense as the Kalungu Water Supply Project approaches its final stages in the quest to alleviate water supply challenges in the region. Scheduled for completion in May 2024, the project aims to address the persistent water shortages experienced in Kalungu Town and surrounding communities including Kyamulibwa, Bugomola, Lusango, Luvule, Kamuli, and Lugasa.
During a recent inspection of the construction site, Hon. Aisha Sekindi, the Minister of State for Water, accompanied by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) Board of Directors led by Chairman, Eng. Dr. Badru Kiggundu, commended NWSC for the commendable progress achieved thus far. With the 4,000,000 litres/day Conventional Water Treatment Plant and associated infrastructure nearing completion, the overall progress stands at an impressive 81%.
Financed internally by NWSC through a Market Finance Arrangement totaling Uganda Shillings Twenty Billion, the project is being executed by MS Zhonghao Overseas Construction & Engineering Co. Ltd in collaboration with GETS Technical Services Ltd. Notably, key components of the project are at advanced stages of completion, including raw water intake, water treatment units, power extension, and distribution infrastructure.
Accompanied by local leaders, the minister and NWSC board were impressed to see the water treatment units and administration buildings already finished, awaiting the installation of electromechanical equipment. The construction progress includes significant milestones such as the completion of raw water pipeline (94%), main distribution reservoir (20%), treated water line (95%), and distribution mains (70%).
With focus now shifted to the remaining tasks including intake construction, main reservoir installation, administration block completion, steel pipeline works, and electromechanical equipment installation, NWSC’s Deputy Managing Director, Eng. Johnson Amayo, highlighted the organization’s commitment to cost-effective project delivery. By embracing a “do-it-yourself” approach, NWSC has streamlined project implementation, reducing costs and timelines significantly.
Despite encountering challenges such as adverse weather conditions and logistical issues, the contractor has made commendable progress in overcoming obstacles and keeping the project on track. Heavy rains in May-September 2023 and the collapse of a key bridge posed logistical challenges, yet the project persevered.
Once operational, the Kalungu Water Supply Project is poised to enhance the socio-economic well-being of residents, ushering in a new era of prosperity and development for the region.
