The Ministry of Water and Environment has issued a strong warning to communities in Kasese District over the continued practice of open defecation, water contamination, and poor hygiene, saying the behaviour poses serious health risks and undermines sanitation improvement efforts. The ministry says the issues remain a major public health concern despite ongoing interventions to expand access to clean water and sanitation facilities across the district.
Recent reports from district health inspectors indicate uneven progress in sanitation coverage across Kasese. Overall latrine coverage stands at 85 percent, safe water coverage at 58 percent, and functionality of water systems at 80 percent. However, Kitswamba Sub-county has the lowest compliance rate at 72 percent, raising concern among health officials about persistent gaps in hygiene practices.
During a community meeting in Buhuhira Sub-county, where a Shs 630 million solar-powered water supply system was commissioned, Ministry of Water and Environment official Ministry of Water and Environment senior official Emanuel Okrut urged residents to prioritise sanitation alongside access to clean water.
Kasese District Chairperson Eliphaz Muhindi Bukombi also urged residents to improve hygiene practices, warning that some communities still lack latrines and rely on bushes, which increases environmental health risks. He called for a change in mindset, saying household sanitation is essential for protecting public health.
Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Eriab Ntarwete raised concerns over vandalism and misuse of water infrastructure, saying such actions undermine government efforts to expand access to safe drinking water. Officials have urged communities to protect water facilities and embrace proper hygiene practices, including consistent use of latrines, to reduce environmental health threats in the district-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
