By Karim Were
KIKUBA VILLAGE, RUBIRIZI DISTRICT — For years, residents of Kikuba Village in Ndekye Ward struggled with limited access to safe water, forcing families to rely on distant and often unsafe sources. That burden is now expected to ease following the commissioning of a new clean water source in the community.
The project, worth more than UGX 6 million, was supported by Bunyaruguru Member of Parliament Hon. Cadet Benjamin Buturo as part of efforts to improve access to essential services in underserved areas.
Residents expressed excitement over the development, describing it as a life-changing intervention. Previously, many households depended on water collected from Lake Kigezi and other faraway sources, requiring women and children to spend hours each day fetching water.
Community members, including Tumwesigye Mangara and Kasande Merab, said the new facility will save time, improve household welfare, and reduce health risks associated with contaminated water.
Local leaders noted that the benefits of the project extend beyond domestic use. Hon. Tugume Muzafaru said reliable access to clean water will strengthen sanitation and public health while supporting small-scale farming activities that provide income for many families.
He urged residents to safeguard the water source and work together to ensure its long-term sustainability.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Buturo reiterated his commitment to improving living standards across Bunyaruguru through practical development initiatives. He emphasized that expanding access to clean and safe water remains a key priority and pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to address challenges facing other communities.
The commissioning of the water source marks a significant milestone for Kikuba Village, with residents hopeful that similar projects will be extended to neighboring areas still experiencing water shortages.
