The escalating issue of metre theft in Lungujja compelled the National Water and Sewerage Corporation’s (NWSC) Lungujja Sub-Branch to launch a vigorous community engagement campaign in a bid to mobilise support to mitigate the vice. Last month alone, over 60 metres were stolen from customers, severely disrupting service delivery and impacting sales. The gravity of the situation demanded swift action, and under the leadership of Ms. Ruth Tuhirirwe, the Ag. Sub-Branch Manager, a massive sensitization initiative was put into motion.
Leading the charge, Ms. Tuhirirwe, accompanied by the Local Council 1 chairperson, Mr. Ssebagala Sammy Salongo, took to the streets of Lungujja Main, Wakaliga, and Kosovu to educate the community about the urgent need to secure water metres and to incite collective vigilance against theft. Mr. Ssebagala praised NWSC’s prompt and proactive measures, urging residents to report any suspicious activities and ensure their metres are properly safeguarded.
Ms. Tuhirirwe lauded her team for their dedication and hinted at the necessity of proper identification when NWSC personnel are on the ground. She highlighted the importance of the community’s role in combating theft and encouraged residents to promptly report any incidents to the sub-branch. The campaign also served as a platform to inform customers about other NWSC services, including prompt bill payment, leaks and bursts, e-services, and tariff information.
The community’s response was overwhelmingly positive, as residents expressed gratitude for the direct engagement and the practical advice on securing their water meters. This initiative aims to curb theft and also seeks to strengthen the bond between NWSC and its customers, forging a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration.