Joy as villagers get piped water after years of waiting

Bethany Adundo at her home in Mungoma Ward. [Brian Kisanji, Standard]

Governor Wilber Ottichilo has indicated that the project will be expanded to cover more households in subsequent phases.

The Environment and Climate Change Chief Officer Richard Boiyo said they are looking for partners who will inject more funds.

"Our target is covering all the 25 wards so that our people can access clean and safe water all the time," said Dr Boiyo.

Samuel Amugune from Mungoma Ward is among the first small-scale farmers to tap the water for irrigation.

"I started growing indigenous vegetables immediately after the water was made available. Local schools and health facilities will offer me a ready market."

The water is being pumped from a 105,000-litre tank at Buhui in Bungoma.

Mwiboma and Ipali water projects will serve residents of Mwiboma and West Bunyore respectively.

The water is tapped from North Maragoli Hills, one of the key water catchment areas in the region. Schools and health centres will also benefit.