The minister for Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, declined to commission the Shs 1.2 billion Kanapa Water Facility in Kumi district after finding that key components of the project had not been installed.
The facility had been scheduled for commissioning this week, but Magyezi, who toured the site, said he could not launch the project before all works were completed and tested.
“I’m not the technical officer, but my mind tells me that if I am supposed to drink something, like beer, it must pass through all the necessary processes before it reaches the final stage. If an essential stage is missing, why should I consume it?” Magyezi said.
“You cannot clearly see a defect and still proceed. You cannot say you will come back later when you already know something is missing. As of now, there is a gap in the quality of the water,” he added.
The minister emphasised public safety, warning that rushing the commissioning could have serious consequences.
“Suppose something goes wrong, a child drinks this water and falls sick, and we are the leaders responsible. Can’t we wait one more month? Let the work be completed and properly tested,” he said.
Despite the concerns, Magyezi acknowledged progress on the project, which is part of the Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) Project funded by the Government of Uganda and the Islamic Development Bank.
Kumi District Local Government is implementing the Lives and Livelihoods Fund component. Eng. Peter Mawanda, the project supervisor, said the facility is about 93 per cent complete, with the remaining work involving installation of a critical treatment component.
“What’s left are final fittings, including a dosing machine called a dozatrone, which is essential for treating the water. The order has been placed through the National Transportation Corporation, and we are ensuring all necessary tests are conducted,” Mawanda said.
He expressed optimism that the project would be completed soon. “By April 24, 2026, we expect everything to be complete. The contractor has assured us that the machine will be delivered and installed on time,” he said.
Kumi resident district commissioner John Bosco Mubito welcomed the minister’s visit and acknowledged the gaps in the project. He said although the contractor faced challenges, authorities should support him to complete the remaining work rather than apply excessive pressure.
About the Author
