Parents of students attending Kalungi Government School in Kamuwunga, located along the Kampala-Masaka highway, are expressing worry over the worsening water situation affecting the school.
The issue stems from the inadequate water supply, with the school’s taps running dry and the available water often contaminated, causing concern among the school community.
School administrators, including Head Teacher Leonard Ssemmanda and the Parent-Teacher Association Chairman John Mutagubya, have acknowledged the severity of the problem, noting its detrimental effects on both learning activities and the health of students and staff.
Parents have voiced their frustrations, calling on President Kaguta Museveni and Prime Minister Robinah Nnabbanja to intervene and address the water crisis promptly.
Among the concerned parents are Tibulidio Mayambala, Catherine Nantume, Judith Babirye, Geoffrey Mutagubye, Vincent Ssebbowa, Safiina Nnankuuma, Juliet Nandagi, Gadaf Ssemakula, and others, who emphasize the impact of the water shortage on their children’s education and well-being.
They highlight the challenges faced by students, particularly in accessing clean water for drinking and sanitation, which affects their ability to concentrate in class.
In response to the situation, community leaders, including Councilor Vincent Mugenyi, have taken steps to mobilize resources to address the water crisis, advocating for the involvement of government authorities and local fishermen in finding solutions.
LCV Chairman Gerald Kiggundu and Councilor Irene Mwebe Nannyanzi have urged the government to prioritize the issue and provide immediate assistance to the school and the affected community members, including fishermen.
Despite the appeals for government intervention, concerns linger over the lack of tangible action taken to alleviate the water scarcity, leaving parents and students anxious about the future.
Furthermore, fears arise over the potential health risks posed by the contaminated water, including the spread of diseases such as cholera and other waterborne illnesses.
John Mutagubya, speaking on behalf of the school, emphasizes the urgent need for a sustainable solution to the water crisis, stressing the importance of government support in addressing the underlying issues.
Efforts to mitigate the water shortage include the installation of additional water tanks and the implementation of water conservation measures, but challenges persist, with some parents and teachers resorting to fetching water from alternative sources.
There is a growing call for government intervention to ensure the provision of clean and safe water to Kalungi Government School and its surrounding areas, safeguarding the health and well-being of students and residents alike, as the community continues to grapple with the water crisis.
