Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring equitable access to clean and safe water across the country, particularly in rural communities, as part of its broader water and sanitation development agenda.
Speaking during Spotlight Uganda hosted by Sanyuka Television on Wednesday under the theme; “Access to Clean and Safe Water,” the Principal Engineer in the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department at the Ministry of Water and Environment, Eng. Ronald Katalo, highlighted the government’s sustained efforts to improve water access and functionality of water sources nationwide.
Katalo noted that borehole water has historically been regarded as one of the safest and most reliable sources of clean water in rural areas.
He emphasized that government interventions have focused on expanding access to such water sources while ensuring their long-term functionality.
“Growing up, we all knew borehole water as the best option, and we have continued to provide this water in several areas across the country,” he said.
Kitalo explained that the Ministry of Water and Environment provides financial support to district local governments to facilitate the development, maintenance, and rehabilitation of water and sanitation infrastructure. This decentralized funding model has played a critical role in keeping boreholes and other rural water systems operational.
“We provide funds to districts, which they use for the development of water and sanitation facilities, and this has significantly helped in keeping boreholes functional,” he said.
To further strengthen service delivery and oversight, Katalo revealed that the ministry has established district-level offices aimed at improving coordination, monitoring, and technical support for water projects.
“We have established offices in districts to ease the work and ensure that communities receive timely and effective support,” he said.
Katalo underscored that access to clean and safe water remains a national priority, noting that government interventions are being implemented at various levels to reach as many citizens as possible.
“The government has tried to provide water for everyone at different levels, and we continue to work towards improving coverage and sustainability,” he said.