KAMWENGE District — Pearl Bank Uganda, World Vision Uganda, and Vision Fund International have unveiled a strategic partnership aimed at restoring and strengthening water infrastructure in Kamwenge District.
The initiative will utilize the Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) loan facility extended to the Kamwenge District Water Management Association (KADWAMA) to repair broken boreholes and rehabilitate non-functional water sources. Beyond infrastructure repair, the program will reinforce community water governance systems to ensure long-term sustainability.
Although Uganda has made notable strides toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation, rural districts such as Kamwenge continue to face persistent challenges. Data from the Uganda Water Supply Atlas shows that while overall water access in the district stands at 77 percent, many communities struggle with infrastructure breakdowns, low water yield, and inadequate maintenance systems — factors that limit consistent and safe access.
The partnership is expected to significantly reduce the time and distance residents travel to collect clean water, improving public health outcomes and boosting household productivity. A key component of the program includes training and equipping local water management committees to oversee operations and maintenance of rehabilitated facilities.
Speaking at the launch event in Kamwenge, Carolyn Andama, Head of Public Sector at Pearl Bank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to socially impactful financing.
“A reliable water source is the backbone of any thriving community,” Andama said. “At Pearl Bank, our mission is to foster prosperity for Ugandans. That means investing not only in financial solutions but also in essential infrastructure that supports education, health, and economic opportunity.”
She added that the initiative aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV priorities on water security and rural transformation, noting that improved water access lays the groundwork for sustainable community development and national economic growth.
James Kaahwa, Program Operations Director at World Vision Uganda, emphasized the importance of safe water for families and children. “Access to clean and safe water is fundamental to community resilience. Through this collaboration, we are not only restoring critical water sources in Kamwenge but also strengthening locally led systems that empower communities to manage and maintain their own services.”
Eng. Lamu Olweny, Commissioner for Rural Water Supply and Sanitation, commended the partners for supporting community-driven development efforts. He noted that rehabilitated water sources will enhance health outcomes and stimulate economic activity in the beneficiary areas.
