Lutheran Church commissions underground piped water system in Kakumiro
“We have many projects as churches that we want to implement, but taxes are making it difficult for us and our partners to bring in machines and equipment that would benefit the local communities,” Rev. Kaija said.
Kakumiro; The Lutheran Church of Uganda, in partnership with its sponsors Big Love Foundation, on Wednesday commissioned and handed over a newly constructed underground piped water system to the community in Lusolera village, Rwembuba Parish, Kijangi Sub County, Kakumiro district.
The Shs 150 million water project is being implemented in three phases, with the primary goal of improving access to clean and safe water for the people of Lusolera and surrounding areas.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Rev. Raymond Kaija, Dean of the Midwestern Deanery of the Lutheran Church of Uganda, called on the government to offer tax exemptions for church-run development projects. He noted that many church-led initiatives are being hindered by taxation especially those involving the importation of equipment intended for community benefit.
“We have many projects as churches that we want to implement, but taxes are making it difficult for us and our partners to bring in machines and equipment that would benefit the local communities,” Rev. Kaija said.
He referenced Section 2bb of the Income Tax Act, which provides for tax exemptions on goods imported by religious institutions for non-profit, community-based purposes. He urged the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to support such initiatives through proper verification and adherence to the exemption provision.
Joseph Kirya Wagoina, Public Relations Officer for the Lutheran Church of Uganda, appealed to the leadership of Kijangi Sub County and Kakumiro District to collaborate with the church in securing land for further expansion of clean water services to nearby villages. He also called for the formation of village water committees to safeguard and maintain the new water system.
Tumwesige Daniel, the LC3 Chairperson of Kijangi Sub County, expressed gratitude to the Lutheran Church for addressing a critical need in the community. “Our people have been walking over 2 kilometers to access clean water. This new facility will greatly ease their burden and improve their well-being,” Tumwesige remarked.
Several residents who spoke to our reporter could not hide their excitement, highlighting the daily struggles they have faced in accessing safe water and the relief this project brings.
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