From Scarcity to Supply: Butaleja Set for Piped Water Commissioning

By Ambrose Wanagoli

The Government of Uganda is set to commission the long-awaited piped water project in Butaleja and Busolwe town councils, in a move expected to benefit at least 500 residents in the initial phase.

According to Eng. Richard Wasige, the Butaleja District Water Officer, the piped water system was tapped from Busiu in Mbale to address persistent water scarcity in Butaleja District, particularly in Butaleja and Busolwe town councils.

He said the commissioning of the project is scheduled for March and will be presided over by the Ministry of Water and Environment.

Eng. Wasige explained that the project faced delays after the Uganda Revenue Authority held water metres imported by a Chinese contractor. Although installation of the main pipeline infrastructure has been completed, the system is currently awaiting installation of the metres for official consumption.

He added that authorities plan to extend the service to neighbouring areas depending on the available water supply.

Busolwe Town Council has been equipped with two water tanks, while Butaleja Town Council has one tank to support distribution.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the commissioning of another piped water project in Nalusaga, Himutu Sub-county, expected in early March. The project will serve residents of Kangalaba, Wangale, and surrounding villages. The water system was tapped from two merged boreholes developed by the Butaleja District Local Government to tackle long-standing water shortages in Himutu Sub-county.

Eng. Wasige noted that several attempts to drill boreholes in Himutu had previously failed, prompting the decision to adopt a piped water solution. He further revealed that surveillance cameras have been installed around the water tanks to enhance security, alongside modern and durable pipes to improve water flow.

The District Water Officer also commended GOAL Uganda for partnering with the government to install safe piped water in Busaba Town Council. The project there was tapped from a borehole in Halanga Ward.

However, he pointed out that areas most affected by water scarcity in Butaleja District include Mabale in Butaleja Sub-county, Masanghe Parish in Nawanjofu Sub-county, and Budumba.

In a related development, Eng. Wasige urged residents across the district to embrace the use of chlorine liquid to purify borehole water. He emphasised that chlorine is safe for human consumption when used appropriately, but expressed concern that some residents have reportedly stolen the liquid for laundry purposes instead of water treatment.