By Guest Writer
Joy and celebration filled Kirongo B village in Mayuge District, eastern Uganda, as hundreds of residents, children, youth, women, and elders gathered to mark a milestone many described as the beginning of a healthier and more dignified future.
The occasion was the commissioning of the village’s first-ever safe water source by Habitat for Humanity Uganda (HFHU). The project forms part of a broader national effort to expand access to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, an essential resource that remains limited in many rural communities.
“For decades, we have had to share water sources with animals,” said Mr Moses Kagulu, Local Council I Chairperson. “This new water facility means everything to our people. It complements government efforts that, after many years, are now reaching our community.”
For the residents of Kirongo B, lack of access to clean water has long undermined health, productivity, and overall well-being. The newly commissioned solar-powered dug well represents a significant and lasting shift in that reality.
Mr Paul Kyuha, Chairperson of the Water Source Committee, expressed both gratitude and commitment during the ceremony. “This is the first water source of its kind in our village. We are truly excited, and as a committee, we are committed to ensuring it is properly managed and sustainably maintained.”
Constructed at a cost exceeding UGX 100 million (approximately USD 27,000), the solar-powered system has the capacity to produce up to 42,000 litres of water per day. For a population of 1,832 people, this provides an average of 23 litres per person daily, surpassing Uganda’s national standard of 20 litres per capita.
“This water source has more than sufficient capacity,” noted Mr Joshua Namuyondho, HFHU Project Officer. “Beyond drinking and domestic use, we encourage the community to utilise the water for backyard farming to improve household nutrition and incomes.”
The project was made possible through contributions from international supporters—often referred to as Tithers—coordinated by Habitat for Humanity International, highlighting the impact of global solidarity in addressing local development challenges.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Ms Evelyn Francise Aguti, Program Director at Habitat for Humanity Uganda, underscored the broader significance of the initiative. “This project is part of our wider strategy to expand access to WASH services across Uganda. Clean water is fundamental to health, dignity, and economic opportunity.”
She also emphasised the importance of strong partnerships in achieving sustainable impact, acknowledging the collaboration between the community, local government authorities, relevant national ministries, and development partners.
Special recognition was given to Mr Christopher Kyesegero, a community member who generously donated land for the construction of the well, an act that made the project possible.
As clean water begins to flow in Kirongo B, it brings more than relief from thirst. It offers renewed hope, improved health outcomes, and expanded livelihood opportunities, marking a transformative moment for this rural community in eastern Uganda. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
