Absa KH3 7 Hills Run expands water and sanitation access in Karamoja

What the report says

Absa Bank Uganda and World Vision Uganda have opened new water and sanitation facilities in Abim District in Karamoja, in a project tied to the Absa KH3 7 Hills Run. According to The Independent Uganda, the upgrades include changing rooms and water points at Kanu Primary School and a five-stance washroom at Arembwola Primary School. The article says the facilities are intended to improve access to safe water, sanitation and menstrual hygiene support for schoolgirls and other learners.

The publication reported that the infrastructure is expected to benefit 3,519 learners, while 2,650 students from six primary schools also received life-skills training under the same programme. The story places the intervention in the wider context of persistent sanitation gaps in Karamoja, noting that poor access to toilets and water can affect attendance and participation, especially for girls. It also cites a previous WASH in Schools effort in the region that reportedly coincided with higher girls’ enrolment.

Absa managing director David Wandera said the initiative fits the broader goals of the 7 Hills Run, which has supported school-related projects, bicycles, assistive devices, menstrual hygiene support, vocational training and water facilities across Uganda. World Vision Uganda country director Jeremiah Nyagah said the partnership aims to improve privacy, dignity and learning conditions for girls. The report also says Absa and World Vision previously commissioned a borehole and changing-room facility at another Abim school in 2024. The developments matter because they address practical barriers that can keep children, particularly girls, from attending and staying in school.