Thousands of residents in Sembabule District are set to benefit from improved access to clean water following the commissioning of a Shs10 billion solar-powered piped water project handed over to the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC).
Implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment with funding from the Government of India, the project is designed to provide a lasting solution to the district’s persistent water scarcity, which has been worsened by the ongoing dry spell.
The first phase will serve more than 62,000 households across over 50 villages in Lugusulu, Mitima and Mijwala sub-counties. Powered by solar energy, the system is expected to ensure a reliable water supply while reducing disruptions caused by electricity outages.
NWSC has taken over operations and pledged to provide water throughout the year despite seasonal fluctuations in River Kyoja, the project’s main water source. Water from public standpipes will cost Shs100 per 20-litre jerrycan, offering a much cheaper alternative to private vendors, who currently charge up to Shs1,000 during shortages.
Residents welcomed the project, saying it will improve public health, reduce the burden of trekking long distances for water, and enhance livelihoods. Farmers, however, appealed for government support to expand irrigation as the prolonged drought continues to affect crop and livestock production.
District leaders praised the investment as a major step toward tackling Sembabule’s long-standing water challenges, with **State Minister for Finance (General Duties) Shartsi Musherure Kutesa** calling for additional funding to extend the piped water network across the entire district.
