By Naome Namusoke/ KMA Updates
Ntoroko District – More than 5,000 residents, representing 2,662 households, have gained access to clean and safe water following the commissioning of the Nyakatoke Gravity Flow Water System, a Shs. 1.2 billion project implemented under the Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) Project.
The facility was officially launched yesterday in Nombe Sub-county by the State Minister for Local Government, Hon. Victoria Rusoke Businge, who emphasized the importance of community responsibility in safeguarding public infrastructure.
“Destroying government facilities reflects lack of patriotism. This water system is a lifeline for your households, and its sustainability will depend on your ownership and commitment to maintaining it,”Minister Rusoke urged residents.
The Nyakatoke Gravity Flow Scheme stretches over 30 kilometers and directly benefits the sub-counties of Nombe and Karugutu. For years, communities in these areas have struggled with severe water scarcity, particularly during the dry season.
Before the project, residents reportedly bought a jerrycan of water at Shs. 1,000 and were often forced to share stagnant, unsafe water sources with livestock—leaving them vulnerable to waterborne diseases.
Representing the community, Mr. Karim Kule, Chairperson of the Water Board, hailed the project as a turning point for Ntoroko.
“We pledge full ownership of this facility. Our people are greatly relieved, as we no longer have to buy costly water or risk our health by consuming unsafe sources,” Kule said.
The commissioning ceremony drew wide participation from leaders and stakeholders. The Ministry of Local Government’s technical team, led by Commissioner Koma Stephen on behalf of Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya, attended alongside the LEGS Project team headed by Madam Maria Nakitende, representing Project Coordinator Eng. Paul Mukasa Kasule.
Local leaders, including the area Member of Parliament, district political representatives, technical staff, and community members, also witnessed the commissioning.
The Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) Project is a government initiative designed to enhance service delivery and stimulate economic growth at the community level. By extending access to essential infrastructure such as safe water, LEGS aims to improve public health, reduce poverty, and promote productivity in rural Uganda.
With the completion of the Nyakatoke Gravity Flow Water System, Ntoroko residents now join thousands of Ugandans benefitting from sustainable clean water initiatives designed to transform livelihoods.