KIBOGA DISTRICT – Heifer International, in collaboration with Aqua for All, the Government of Uganda, and the Dwaniro Dairy Cooperative, has officially commissioned a solar-powered water supply system under the Water for Dairy Business (W4DB) project in Muyenje Village, Kiboga District.
Initiated in 2023, the UGX 1 billion project aims to improve access to clean and safe water for dairy farmers—particularly members of the Dwaniro Dairy Cooperative. The system is expected to significantly enhance dairy productivity and community livelihoods.
So far, the project has benefited over 2,000 people, including schools, health centers, and small businesses. This milestone demonstrates the impact of effective multi-stakeholder collaboration.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, William Matovu, Country Director of Heifer International Uganda, emphasized the urgent need for reliable water access in the area. “Women and children were walking an average of two kilometers just to collect water, often from unsafe sources. This situation posed serious health and productivity concerns,” he said.
Matovu noted that the lack of clean water negatively affected dairy operations. “At one point, the cooperative was losing 4–5% of its milk due to spoilage, especially during the dry season when water shortages became critical. Without sufficient water, farmers struggled to maintain healthy livestock, and households faced daily hardships.”
He underscored the importance of water in dairy farming. “Milk and water are like siblings—you can’t have one without the other. Without a steady supply of clean water, it’s nearly impossible to maintain efficiency and productivity on the farm.”
Two water systems have now been established for the Dwaniro Cooperative—one newly drilled and fully equipped system, and another completed from a previously unfinished borehole initially drilled by the district government. “This is a great example of building on existing government investment,” Matovu said.
He also praised the project’s sustainable financial model. A seed fund was created within the cooperative, with members paying UGX 100 per 20-liter jerrycan of water. The proceeds are reinvested in maintaining the system and attracting further investment.
Surita Sandosham, President and CEO of Heifer International, commended the Dwaniro Cooperative for its long-standing service to over 900 members. “These farmers are impacting thousands of lives, and we are honored to support their journey.”
“At Heifer, we believe partnership is the foundation of lasting change. We call it the ‘currency of impact.’ Real transformation comes from working together over time. We’ve partnered with Dwaniro since 2011 and are committed for the long haul,” she said.
She further highlighted the innovation behind the initiative. “This project, made possible by the generous support of Aqua for All, uses a market-driven model to ensure sustainable access to water. It puts the power directly into the hands of the community.”
Hon. Sidronius Okaasai Opolot, Minister of State for Energy, was represented at the event by Dr. Sam Isabirye, Commissioner for Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development. In his remarks, Okaasai praised the initiative for its role in advancing sustainable development, clean energy, and improved livelihoods.
“This project represents more than water—it’s a symbol of transformation. Heifer has been empowering smallholder farmers globally since 1944, and has reached over 56 million people,” he noted.
The minister added that the project supports Uganda’s national development goals and Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7), which advocates for access to affordable, clean energy. “This initiative promotes off-grid energy solutions and productive uses of energy in agriculture—key priorities in Uganda’s Energy Policy 2023.”
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting solar energy across sectors like health, education, and agriculture. “I thank the people of Muyenje and Dwaniro for embracing this project and encourage you to safeguard it for future generations.”
Mr. Johnson Kwesigabo, Chairman of the Dwaniro Dairy and Livestock Cooperative Society, described the commissioning as a major milestone.
“One of our biggest challenges has been the lack of clean water for washing equipment like coolers, tankers, and milk cans. Previously, we used unsafe water, which threatened the quality of our milk,” he said.
With 500 registered members and an additional 400 affiliated farmers, the cooperative supports around 900 dairy producers and collects approximately 35,000 liters of milk daily for processing.
“Thanks to this project, we now have clean, reliable water—not only for our dairy operations but also for the surrounding community. Previously, residents relied on valley dams filled with dirty rainwater,” Kwesigabo added.
To ensure sustainability, the cooperative charges UGX 100 per jerrycan of water. The fees, amounting to roughly UGX 3 million per month, are reinvested in the maintenance and operation of the system.
Project Funding Summary:
- Total Budget: €249,536
- Aqua for All: €200,000
- Heifer International: €13,536
- Dwaniro Cooperative: €30,000
- Local Government: €6,000
