Jinja: Sirina Kyakuwaire, the Deputy Speaker of Jinja City Council and also the female councilor representing Mafubira in the city’s Northern Division, has teamed up with Humanity First Uganda, a non-profit organization, to address the ongoing water scarcity issue in the town. The move comes in response to reports of water shortages in some parts of Jinja city, prompting concern among residents.
Kyakuwaire expressed her dissatisfaction with the modern water supply system provided by the National Water and Sewage Corporation, citing its high costs as burdensome for vulnerable individuals in the community. She is encouraging residents to make use of local boreholes, where water is freely available. In certain areas of Jinja, the price of a jerry can of water can soar to a minimum of shs. 500, a financial strain for low-income earners.
Residents of Buwekula parish in the Northern Division faced nearly a week without water, prompting threats of protests. They accused the National Water authorities of collecting fees without addressing their concerns. Charles Okuonzi, the NWSC manager of Jinja branch, attributed this particular shortage to a power shutdown at the water pumping site in Masese.
Kyakuwaire stressed the vital role that water plays in people’s lives and called on her constituents to have access to clean and safe water. Supported by Humanity First Uganda, she initiated the repair and optimization of several boreholes located in villages such as Wabulenga, Kyamagwa, Butiki, and Bufuula. Her commitment extends to resolving mechanical issues with boreholes in other areas to combat water scarcity in the community.
She commended the non-governmental organization for prioritizing the well-being of Jinja residents by extending access to water sources for underprivileged communities. Kyakuwaire also urged community leaders to ensure the proper maintenance of boreholes to prolong their lifespan. She called on fellow leaders to join her initiative, aimed at improving water supplies throughout Jinja city.
