Buliisa District, Uganda — Residents of Bukumi village in Nyamasoga Parish, Biiso Sub-county, are raising concerns over continued reliance on an unprotected water source shared with wild and domestic animals.

Locals, including Fraswazi and Sharon Kwiyo-Cwiny, say they walk more than two kilometers daily to fetch water from River Waaki — a source they share with cows, goats, monkeys, and baboons. Speaking to our reporter this afternoon, several mothers were found collecting water and explained that when animals are present, they must wait at least 15 minutes for the water to settle before they can draw any for domestic use.

: Kwiyo-Cwiny on unsafe water – Alur

Joyce Ayomirwoth, another mother from the area, shared that waterborne diseases are becoming common in her household, increasing the cost of managing her home and healthcare.

: Ayomirwoth on unsafe water – Alur

Michael Anwang-Kani, the acting LC1 Chairperson of Bukumi village, confirmed the situation, saying that over 300 households rely on the same river, which is contaminated by animal waste.

He also noted that although some residents occasionally access tap water, the ongoing dry spell has led to a severe shortage.

: Micheal on unsafe water – Alur

Anwang-Kani urged men to help their wives in fetching water, highlighting the burden carried by women and children.

: Micheal on men helping – Alur

He further called on the government to intervene and commended Buliisa County MP Hon. Allan Atugonza for purchasing land where a borehole is currently under construction.

: Micheal on government support and Honorable Allan’s Contribution   – Alur

Efforts to reach Maurice Wekame, the district engineer and water officer, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to multiple phone calls by press time.