Govt injects over Shs370m to address water dam crisis in Nebbi

Nebbi, Uganda: The Ministry of Local Government, with funding from the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), has injected Shs371 million to construct modern water dam supply systems in Kucwiny Sub-county, Nebbi District, targeting persistent water shortages affecting communities and livestock.

The intervention was officially launched with the commissioning and handover of project sites in Jupala Village, Lee Parish, to contractor PEGOSA Engineering Works, paving the way for construction works scheduled to run for five months.

Nebbi District Natural Resources Officer Doreen Fualing said the project was initiated following prolonged water scarcity that has severely affected livelihoods in the area, particularly among livestock keepers.

“Due to the lack of alternative water sources for both communities and livestock in Lee Parish, Nebbi District, with support from UNCDF through the Ministry of Local Government, we believe this project will significantly reduce water scarcity,” Fualing said.

She explained that the district, working with political leaders, partnered with the Ministry of Local Government to deliver a Water Dam Supply System as a sustainable, climate-resilient solution.

“This support will set the stage for a transformational approach to water management and help communities cope with increasing climate-related challenges such as droughts and unpredictable flooding,” she added.

Nebbi District Assistant Water Officer Brian Cwothembo said the project will directly benefit over 500 households, supplying approximately 100,000 cubic litres of water within the cattle corridor of Kucwiny Sub-county.

“Investing in ecosystem restoration and innovative water technologies will reduce vulnerability to drought and floods while ensuring sustainable water supply for both humans and livestock,” Cwothembo said.

He added that the district water sector will continue extending clean and safe water coverage to other water-stressed sub-counties as funding allows.

During the site handover, Omara Samuel, Director of PEGOSA Engineering Works, said the project scope includes construction of a check dam, silt trap, and animal drinking facilities, among other components.

“We value quality and accountability. We are committed to delivering value for money and completing the project within the agreed five-month timeframe,” Omara said.

Local leaders welcomed the intervention. Okaba Jinaro, the LC I Chairperson of Jupala Village, said the community of over 200 households has endured long-standing water challenges.

“As a community, we appreciate government’s effort to provide water for livestock and domestic use, though more investment is still needed across the district,” Jinaro said.

Residents also expressed optimism. Atimango Florence, a mother of three, said women had been walking more than four kilometres daily in search of water. “With the construction of this water dam, we believe the suffering caused by water scarcity will soon end,” she said.

Nebbi District LC V Chairperson Emmanuel Urombi said the project marks a significant step in improving access to safe water for both humans and livestock.

“I urge the beneficiaries of Lee Parish to work closely with the contractor to ensure the project succeeds and serves the community sustainably,” Urombi said.

Resident District Commissioner Robert Abak cautioned residents to take responsibility for protecting the facility once completed, urging active community monitoring during construction to prevent vandalism or misuse.