The Ministry of Water and Environment has handed over Kiduuma site in Kagadi District to Gat Consult Ltd for the construction of a solar powered mini piped water scheme in the area.
The officer in charge of the ministry’s Rural Water and Sanitation Department, Ms Jamirah Nakagwa, says that the Shs572m-project funded by the African Development Bank (ADB) is projected to be complete in June 2021.
Speaking at the handover ceremony at Kiduuma trading centre in Kiryanga sub-county on Wednesday, Ms Nakagwa warned against any illegalities during the construction process to enable the ministry realise value for money in the project.
“The Ministry of Water is committed to ensure zero tolerance to fraud and corruption as guided by the existing legal national frameworks and institutions,” she warned.
Representing the Resident District Commissioner, the Kagadi Deputy District Internal Security Officer, Mr Michael Bikoopa, also warned the contractor and the local residents against any acts of sabotage that will affect the Kiduuma piped water supply system.
“The contractor of this project is warned against indulging in any act of corruption that might undermine government efforts to provide clean and safe water to the citizens. The citizens are also warned against vandalising the equipment which will be used universally. Both parties should know that there are laws governing this state and anybody who falls short of them as per this project will be handled in accordance with the law,” he said.
The Kagadi District LC 5 Chairman, Mr Stephen Byaruhanga Mfashingabo, urged the contractor to prioritise local content while considering labour force before advising the local residents who will be employed with the company to be committed to their work.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, Mr Anatole Mwesigwa, said that with the completion of the project, beneficiaries will have their health improved and save money for using clean and safe water that will be provided.
“After the completion of this piped water system, we hope that there will be a reduction on water and sanitation related diseases since residents will be drinking safe and clean water from this supply. We are optimistic that the disease burden resulting from using impure water will lessen and residents will save money that would otherwise be used for medical expense.”
The district water engineer and the Chief Administrative Officer were among other government officials present at the function.
