Kamwenge District requires approximately Shs60 billion to increase safe water coverage from the current 79 percent to 100 percent by 2030, district officials have revealed.
The target was announced during a Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) coordination meeting with headteachers held at Club Afreca Complex in Kamwenge Town Council.
Kamwenge District Water Officer Agaba Asiimwe said plans for the River Mpanga Bulk Water Project have been completed, with the proposed project expected to establish a water treatment plant and extend piped water services to Nkoma, Kataryeba, Bwizi and other underserved areas.
"Once government funding is secured, this project will be our long-term strategy to achieve universal water coverage," Asiimwe said.
District officials said the project will play a critical role in addressing water shortages and improving access to safe and reliable water for households, schools and public institutions.
Kamwenge District Chairperson Joseph Karungi Omugabuzi said the district is aiming to increase water coverage to 90 percent in the next financial year while engaging government and development partners to mobilise resources for the long-term target.
The District Secretary for Works, Yonani Muhwezi, urged headteachers to prioritise water-related costs by budgeting for water bills and maintenance of school water facilities.
Muhwezi said proper maintenance of school water infrastructure is essential in ensuring learners have access to safe water and improved hygiene.
District leaders also appreciated the support from the Mid-Western Umbrella of Water and Sanitation towards the planned human waste treatment plant, saying the facility will strengthen sanitation services in the district.
They noted that improving water access, sanitation and hygiene remains critical to protecting public health and supporting socio-economic development in Kamwenge.