Mbarara City is grappling with a severe challenge due to the deteriorating raw water quality in River Rwizi, a vital source of water for the region. The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has reported a significant decline in water quality values since the onset of the first rains after a dry spell.
Heavy rainfall in the river’s catchment districts has led to substantial runoff, depositing large amounts of silt into the river, severely impacting the quality of produced water.
Despite efforts by NWSC’s water quality control teams, the situation remains challenging, highlighting the need for collective responsibility in maintaining the buffer zone along the river and protecting the catchment area from encroachment.
The Regional Principal Water Quality Control Officer, Jackie Sparks, noted that the poor water quality has increased treatment costs, requiring more chemicals to achieve acceptable standards.She revealed that they have been spending 100millions previously per month but due to poor water quality the cost has risen to close to 200 millions.
Sparks apologized for any poor water quality that may have reached consumers during a breakdown in June and emphasized that NWSC cannot guarantee pure water like bottled mineral water due to the high cost of ultra-filtration. She encouraged the public to report any substandard water quality to NWSC branches or staff.
The corporation is working with stakeholders to sensitize the public about wetland conservation and has commended the Abahumuzza Development Group for organizing the “Save River Rwizi 2024” campaign, aimed at revamping the river’s natural state.
NWSC appeals to development partners responsible for maintaining the buffer zone to ensure that encroachers vacate the area willingly.
