Water shortage crisis hits Kasese

What the report says

A prolonged dry spell has intensified water shortages in parts of Busongora North in Kasese district, western Uganda, according to The Observer. The affected areas include Rugendabara, Kitswamba, Kabatunda-Kirabaho town councils and Bwesumbu sub-county, where residents say familiar water sources have dried up or become harder to reach, forcing some households to walk long distances in search of water for home use and livestock.

The article says district water office data puts overall water coverage in Kasese at more than 65%, but coverage in some parts of Busongora North is much lower, at about 35%. Residents described relying on ponds, open wells and other shared sources, many of which are also drying up. Local leaders and residents warned that families have begun turning to contaminated wells and streams, raising concerns about waterborne disease.

The situation is also affecting daily life and livelihoods. Women were singled out by one resident as bearing much of the burden because of the extra time and effort needed to secure water. Farmers and other residents in Bwesumbu said the dry spell has lasted longer than usual, extending beyond the months when village sources typically dry up.

A health worker at Bwesumbu Health Centre III said the facility is treating an average of 30 children with typhoid each month, which she linked to sanitation problems including open defecation near water sources. The local LC III chairperson called for district authorities and development partners to prioritize expanded safe water services in rural communities.