The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has attributed the ongoing water crisis in Kisoro district to sporadic power outages and significant unpaid arrears. During a district-level coordination meeting at the district council hall, NWSC Manager Ateker Charles Odeke revealed that the public owes the corporation approximately 783 million shillings.
Odeke highlighted that the Kisoro district local government is the largest debtor, presenting a dilemma for the NWSC on whether to disconnect water services to these points. He mentioned that consistent payments would enable the extension of water services to other areas.
During the meeting, it was revealed that during the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks, the district requested the installation of water points in various areas, including Batwa communities, which have not been paid for. Despite the challenging terrain, Odeke assured that the district has enough resources to maintain their electromechanical equipment and improve water services.
Ateker noted that while a master plan for water extension exists, implementation remains difficult without the necessary funds.
Kisoro’s Deputy Principal Chief Administrative Officer, Dr. George Kwizera, acknowledged the NWSC’s complaint and promised to propose solutions for clearing the accumulated debts.