On October 11, 2023, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Tororo Municipality, Hon. Apollo Ofwono Yeri, has been granted permission by the House to introduce a Private Member’s Bill titled “The Rainwater (Harvesting and Storage) Bill.”
During a plenary session on the mentioned date, the MP presented the motion seeking approval for the Bill. This proposed legislation outlines the requirement for the mandatory collection and storage of rainwater, with the goal of conserving, establishing, maintaining, and managing rainwater harvesting systems and facilities throughout Uganda.
Hon. Yeri explained that it is crucial to implement effective measures to address issues related to drought and flooding, especially by making use of abundant rainwater during the rainy seasons. He noted that rainwater often leads to flooding in urban areas with poorly maintained drainage systems.
By harvesting and storing rainwater, the MP believes it will not only address the water needs of the Ugandan population but also reduce the risk of flooding. Hon. Yeri pointed out that climate projections suggest worsening conditions in the future, which could pose threats to Uganda’s growing population, economy, and urbanization.
The proposed law introduces a building committee responsible for ensuring that all developers incorporate rainwater harvesting and storage provisions. Hon. Yeri emphasized the importance of making the most of this valuable resource, as it is currently underutilized.
Hon. Juliet Agasha, the Mitooma District Woman MP, seconded the motion to introduce the Bill. She emphasized that rainwater harvesting and storage would protect the rights and well-being of women and young girls by reducing their exposure to sexual harassment during long treks to fetch water. Additionally, she noted the potential benefits for the President’s agenda on solar-powered irrigation pumps, as well as how rainwater collection could facilitate irrigation in rural areas.
The Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, referred the Bill to the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources. He also suggested that the committee collaborate with the Committee on Physical Infrastructure to explore the possibility of incorporating Hon. Yeri’s proposals into the Building Control Act. Deputy Speaker Tayebwa stressed the need to consider whether new laws were necessary or if existing laws could be strengthened through amendments.
