3.1bn/- project ends water woes in Bukoba

BUKOBA: OVER 18,000 residents in five wards of Bukoba Municipality can now access safe, reliable water following the completion of a 3.1bn/- water project.

The project, implemented by the Bukoba Urban Water and Sanitation Agency (BUWASA), was officially launched on Tuesday by the Leader of the Uhuru Torch Race 2025, Mr Ismail Ali Ussi.

Speaking during the launch, Mr Ussi urged citizens to take ownership of the new infrastructure to ensure its sustainability.

“Communities across the country where similar projects are being implemented should ensure that these projects are well maintained because they cost billions of shillings,” he said.

BUWASA Project Coordinator, Mr Daudi Byeyamba, said construction started in 2020 and has now reached 100 per cent completion.

The project covers Kahororo, Buhembe, Nshambya and Kashai wards in Bukoba Municipal Council as well as Nyakato ward in Bukoba District Council.

He said that the project will significantly reduce the burden on residents who previously had to travel long distances to fetch water.

“The water project is part of the government’s broader efforts to improve access to safe and clean water across the country,” he said Residents expressed their joy at the development, saying it would transform their daily lives.

A resident of Bugashani village Janet Kaimukirwa recalled the challenges they faced before the project.

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“In the past we had to walk about seven kilometres to fetch water, which was often unsafe. Women and children were the most vulnerable. We thank the government for this timely intervention,” she said.

Official data shows that the number of citizens accessing clean water in rural areas in Kagera Region has increased from 76 per cent in 2020 to 83 per cent this year.

In urban areas, access has risen from 85 per cent in 2020 to 93 per cent this year.

Local leaders said the project will also boost hygiene and sanitation in the beneficiary wards and help prevent waterborne diseases.

A total of 58 projects worth 23.8bn/- will be inspected by the Uhuru Torch during its tour in Kagera Region.

Regional Commissioner Ms Fatma Mwassa said the projects cut across various sectors including health, education, infrastructure and water.

In a related development, over 6,000 residents in Muleba District’s Kikuku ward who have faced water shortages for years will soon breathe a sigh of relief as a 650m/- water project nears completion.

According to a report, the project has attained 89 per cent completion and is expected to be fully operational by October this year.

Ms Mwassa also called on residents to participate enthusiastically in this year’s Uhuru Torch race.

“Last year, Kagera performed excellently during the Uhuru Torch race, Muleba District winning best among all councils nationwide. We must unite and maintain this top position this year,” she said.