NWSC kicks off feasibility study, Designs for a new water supply system in Kakumiro
Drake Nyamugabwa
Following an engagement of various stakeholders in Kakumiro town council in October last year, led by Godfrey Tumuhairwe and Commercial Assistant Sheillah Ainembabazi, from National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) and the Deputy Chief Administration Officer (D-CAO), Mr. Peter Erisu on the other side. The leadership of NWSC spearheaded by Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha, has initiated comprehensive feasibility studies and detailed designs for a new water supply system.
This visionary project, boasting a capacity of approximately 1.5 million liters daily, aims to extract water from nearby surface sources and rivers, moving away from unreliable groundwater sources.
The 2023 meeting included local communities, government officials, NGOs, and other water user groups discussed the water supply plans for Kakumiro Town council and the NWSC team shed light on significant ongoing and upcoming projects for the last quarter of the fiscal year 2022/23 and the following fiscal year, 2023/24.
The new state-of-the-art water treatment plant is projected to solve the prolonged struggle of unreliable water sources in the supply areas of towns of Kikora, Nalweyo, Kakumiro Main, Kasambya, Kisiita, Mpasana, and Nkoko among others that has long grappled with water scarcity due to dependency on low-yield boreholes.
While NWSC has implemented short-term interventions over the past year, the current water sources are deemed unsustainable for long-term requirements. Additionally, neighboring towns such as Igayaza and Kisiita, despite having sizable populations and thriving economic activities, remain underserved.
According to NWSC “The journey began with a rather significant meeting between NWSC Management and key local leaders, led by the Deputy Chief Administration Officer (D-CAO), Mr. Peter Erisu. The enthusiastic atmosphere depicted not only the project’s potential but also the unwavering determination to overcome water scarcity. This collaboration set a solid foundation for what could be a game-changer in Kakumiro’s water landscape”
Subsequent to the meeting, on-site assessments of potential water sources were done, guided by District officials. This vital interaction provided valuable insights into the region’s water dynamics and the challenges faced by residents. Traversing River Nkusi and River Kafu sources, along with potential pipeline routes and supply areas, illuminated the path toward sustainable solutions.
“In the days ahead, the gathered insights and field assessments will shape the project’s design and implementation. Though the journey has just begun, the strides taken echo a promise of improved water accessibility and an enhanced quality of life for Kakumiro’s residents” reads the statant in part.
