Authorities in Rukiga District, Uganda, have issued a stern warning to individuals found vandalising government water infrastructure, following a series of incidents involving damaged water pipes in Kamwezi Subcounty. The warning was delivered during a community baraza in Kibanda Parish, where the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) is implementing the Shs2.1 billion Kyogo-Kibanda Water Supply Project.
The Kyogo-Kibanda Water Supply Project has commenced supplying water to four villages in Kibanda Parish, including Kinyamozi, Rushojwa, and Nyabunyungu. According to NWSC Engineer in charge of Rukiga District, Raymond Mushabe, some underground pipes have been deliberately cut by individuals allegedly seeking water for bricklaying and other activities.
NWSC is collaborating with police and other security agencies to identify those responsible for the vandalism. Residents have been cautioned against drawing water from damaged pipes and urged to report leaks or vandalism to NWSC. Rukiga District Woman MP, Dr. Sylvia Arinaitwe, expressed frustration that projects secured for communities were being destroyed, citing difficulties and costs associated with replacing materials.
Rukiga Resident District Commissioner, Zaddok Kamusiime, warned that vandalising government property carries serious legal consequences and should not be treated as an ordinary community dispute. Rukiga County MP, Patrick Kiconco Katabaazi, asked residents to report anyone suspected of damaging development projects and pledged to continue lobbying for improved access to water, electricity, and health services.
The Kyogo-Kibanda project aims to supply water to 14 villages in Kyogo and Kibanda, as well as parts of Rwamatunguru Township. NWSC Rukiga District Branch Manager, Bon Shine, stated that construction is expected to be completed by December 2026. The project features four water sources capable of producing a combined 148,900 litres per hour.
Water is pumped into reservoirs with a combined storage capacity of 160,000 litres before being distributed through a 32-kilometre pipeline network. Residents seeking piped water are required to apply for individual connections. Kamwezi Subcounty LC3 Chairperson, Tedison Niwagaba, reported that piped water coverage in the area currently stands at about 80 per cent.
Authorities have urged residents to protect the water infrastructure and report cases of vandalism. The area also expects to benefit from a Shs5 billion irrigation scheme pledged by President Yoweri Museveni during the 2026 presidential campaign, following the withdrawal of residents from wetlands.
Key points
- Authorities warn of arrests and prosecution for vandalising government water infrastructure.
- The Shs2.1 billion Kyogo-Kibanda Water Supply Project is expected to supply water to 14 villages.
- Piped water coverage in Kamwezi Subcounty currently stands at about 80 per cent.
