RUKIGA, Uganda — Leaders in Rukiga District have called for an investigation by the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) following concerns over the stalled Kashumuruzi gravity water scheme, a project intended to improve access to safe water in the district.
The project, valued at UGX 39,658,266, was designed to serve residents of Kakyiri and Kashumuruzi villages in Kashambya Sub-county, as well as Kabirizi village in Rwamucucu Sub-county. However, councilors allege that the scheme remains incomplete and has failed to benefit all intended communities.
Rwamucucu Councilor Sam Niwandinda and Bukinda Councilor Brenda Ainembabazi claim that the project has largely benefited only Kashambya Sub-county, leaving residents in Rwamucucu struggling to access clean water.
According to the leaders, affected communities are still relying on unsafe sources such as the Rushebeya-Kanyabaha swamp, exposing them to waterborne diseases and other risks, including drowning.
The councilors further allege that the project may have been diverted to serve the interests of a few individuals, including local leaders and businesspeople, rather than the wider community. They specifically accused the district Youth Councilor and Secretary for Works, Elias Turinawe, of personally benefiting from the project through water connections at his residence.
In response, Rukiga District LC5 Chairperson Robert Kakwerere attributed the project’s challenges to contractor incompetence, suggesting that implementation issues may have led to the current situation.
Meanwhile, Chief Administrative Officer Nakintu Hanifa maintained that the project is still ongoing, indicating that work has not been abandoned.
The District Speaker, Oscar Akampurira, has since directed the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) to carry out an investigation into the matter.
The growing dispute highlights concerns over accountability and service delivery, with local leaders urging swift action to ensure the project is completed and benefits the intended communities.
