In Makindye-Ssabagabo within Wakiso District, lies Kitiko village, a once modest community now evolving into a thriving residential area. However, as the community flourishes, a disruption in the water supply that threatens to cast a shadow over the escalating progress emerges.
The roots of this challenge intertwine with the hilly terrain, coupled with a quadrupled population that has exponentially increased the demand for water places unprecedented strain on the reliable water system that has long served the Kitiko community.
Responding to this escalating crisis, a dedicated team from Kampala Water, led by Eng. Francis Kateeba, the Senior Manager of Water Supply, converged on Kitiko. Accompanied by Eng. Accram Nsubuga, Sub-Branch Manager of Najjanankumbi, and Mr. Yusuf Bazannyanengo from the network team, they pitched camp at the branch offices to confront the pressing issue of water scarcity.
Mr. Bazannyanengo, with a measured tone, addressed the gravity of the situation, “We are serving approximately 4200 active accounts, and the backbone of our water distribution in the area is the pump with a capacity of 30 cubic meters, operating for 3 to 7 hours a day.”
Following the meeting, a collective sense of responsibility filled the air as the teams embarked on a journey to intimately understand the hills and existing water infrastructure. Jumping trenches and navigating the undulating terrain, they measured elevations and studied the lay of the land with meticulous precision.
As the teams exchanged thoughts, potential solutions were explored to boost water supply. Suggestions surfaced, ranging from installing a new generator to address power interruptions, placing pressure gauges on certain lines, constructing boreholes, laying a 1.5-inch pipe to serve specific blocks, and utilizing the Lubowa borehole, among other strategies. The team then translated these suggestions into actionable initiatives to propel Kitiko’s journey towards sustained progress and development.
Eng. Kateeba, displaying leadership, tasked the Branch Engineer, Mr. Gilbert Akugizibwe, and Mr. Bazannyanengo to investigate if Kitiko’s pumpage is mixing with gravity flow. Additionally, plans were set in motion to acquire land at the peak of Kitiko with an elevation of 1305, showcasing a commitment to comprehensive solutions.
In line with the broader vision, NWSC remains steadfast in supporting the country’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of ensuring water for sustainable growth and development.
