A renewed sense of hope and progress is taking root in Kyankwanzi District, where leaders and government officials have witnessed the impact of two major water projects aimed at improving livelihoods and public health.
District leaders, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Water and Environment, conducted an inspection of ongoing water infrastructure projects in Bananywa and Nkandwa sub-counties. What began as a routine assessment evolved into a reflection of resilience, collaboration, and the promise of sustainable development.
In Bananywa Sub-county, residents welcomed the delegation, highlighting the immediate benefits of access to safe and clean water. LCIII Chairperson Nsubuga Umar said the project is already transforming lives in a community long affected by water scarcity.
“This project has restored dignity and brought relief to our people. Access to clean water is no longer a distant dream,” he said.
However, he raised concerns over delayed compensation for some affected residents, even as the project nears completion.
Providing technical insight, the District Water Officer said the initiative prioritises seven villages—Mailo, Kiteredde, Nakasero, Kisenyi, Kikonge, Kirimbi, and Bananywa—adding that its success is anchored in strong collaboration between communities, local leaders, and contractors.
“Sustainability is key. Communities must take ownership through Water User Committees and contribute small user fees to maintain the system,” he explained.
Chief Administrative Officer Fred Mukasa Kizito commended stakeholders for their commitment but acknowledged that compensation delays had slowed progress.
“We cannot compromise on fairness. Compensation will be addressed, and we must also protect this infrastructure from vandalism because it is a lifeline for our communities,” he said.
From the ministry, Hadja Katongole reassured residents that quality would not be compromised despite the delays.
“A final technical inspection will be conducted before handover, and all pending compensation will be cleared within a week,” she said.
Beyond water access, the project has also improved sanitation and institutional facilities. In Bananywa, three modern latrines with water access have been constructed—two at Bananywa Health Centre II and one at Kirimbi Primary School—alongside two incinerators to support safe waste management.
The delegation later proceeded to Bugomolwa in Nkandwa Sub-county, where the scale of investment was more evident. A 20-metre structure supporting a large water tank now stands as a symbol of transformation.
The project is set to serve five villages—Bugomolwa A, Bugomolwa B, Bugomolwa Central, Kiyinikibi, and Kyanywa—with 69 household taps and five public standpipes to ensure reliable access to clean water.
Additional infrastructure includes a latrine at Kasoolo, two office blocks, and furnished administrative spaces. The project is valued at over Shs5 billion, reflecting significant government investment in rural development.
In a complementary effort, Ambitious Construction Company distributed 600 fruit seedlings, including mangoes and avocados, to residents in both Bananywa and Bugomolwa to promote nutrition, income generation, and environmental sustainability.
District leaders, including LCV Chairperson Dr. Mpuuga John and Deputy RDC Peruth Kabaale, urged residents to utilise the improved water access to boost agriculture and household incomes.
“Water is not just for drinking—it is a foundation for development. Use it to improve your livelihoods and build a better future,” one leader emphasised.
As the inspection concluded, officials noted that the projects represent more than infrastructure—they are catalysts for transformation driven by partnership, sustained by community ownership, and rooted in a shared vision for a better future.
For the people of Bananywa and Nkandwa, access to clean water marks the beginning of a new chapter defined by improved health, economic opportunity, and renewed hope.