Kiryandongo, Uganda — Kiryandongo District has launched and commissioned 20 deep borehole projects worth Shs652 million to expand access to safe water, reduce waterborne diseases and strengthen community resilience amid prolonged dry spells.
The investment comprises 10 newly launched borehole projects valued at Shs321 million under the 2026/2027 financial year and 10 completed boreholes worth Shs331 million implemented during the 2025/2026 financial year.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony at the Kibura village borehole in Kigumba Sub-county, District Water Officer Samuel Muhumuza said all the commissioned facilities had undergone test pumping and recorded adequate water yields to serve their intended communities.
Muhumuza said the tests had established the boreholes’ capacity to provide water, paving the way for residents to benefit from the investment.
District Vice Chairperson Peace Salama urged water user committees and community members to take responsibility for managing and maintaining the facilities to ensure they remain functional.
Salama also raised concern over the prolonged dry spell that has affected the district for three consecutive agricultural seasons, underscoring the importance of reliable water sources for communities facing increasingly difficult conditions.
She called on residents to take ownership of the boreholes and ensure they continue providing safe water for household use.
In Kibura village, Local Council I Chairperson Tadeo Tugume welcomed the new borehole, describing it as the village’s only deep borehole and saying it would improve access to safe water while reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.
However, Tugume appealed to the district to construct an additional borehole, arguing that the existing facility might not adequately serve the village’s 148 households.
He said another water source would improve access and reduce pressure on the newly commissioned facility.
Deputy Resident District Commissioner Jonathan Akweteireho emphasised the importance of launching and commissioning public projects, saying the practice promotes accountability and transparency in service delivery.
He noted that such activities allow leaders and communities to appreciate government investments and monitor progress in the delivery of public services.
The Shs652 million investment marks a further step in Kiryandongo District’s efforts to expand water infrastructure. However, the long-term impact will depend on proper maintenance, community participation and continued investment to ensure the facilities meet residents’ needs.
As implementation of the 2026/2027 projects begins, communities are expected to benefit from additional water infrastructure, although residents in places such as Kibura say more facilities may be needed to meet local demand.
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