The technical handover of a Shs6 billion solar-powered water project in Agago District has been delayed to allow the contractor to rectify outstanding technical faults affecting some of the schemes.
The project, implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment through its Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Department, was constructed by M/S Shakti Pumps with funding from the Indian Exim Bank and the Government of Uganda.
It comprises a 94-kilometre pipe network serving communities in Layita, Lakwa, Lamingonen and Lomoi in Omiya Pacwa Sub-county.
The project was designed to provide water to about 6,000 people in 41 villages through 270 household connections and about 19 public standpoints.
Yoash Yose, the contractor’s representative, says all major infrastructure has been installed, including pumping stations, storage tanks and the transmission and distribution pipelines.
However, Agago District Water Officer Oroma Emmanuel says some technical challenges remain, particularly in the Lomoi and Lamingonen schemes.
He describes the situation as a natural problem rather than a failure by the contractor or authorities.
Moris Ocana, the Agago Assistant Resident Commissioner urges local leaders and other stakeholders to sensitise communities about the piped water system and prepaid tariffs to build trust and promote sustainable management.
The Northern Uganda Umbrella is expected to assume full operation and maintenance after the test-running period and rectification of outstanding defects.
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