World Bank, NWSC launch River Bank Conservation Project in Mbale
“Our people must stop using rivers as latrines or bathing points. Such actions pollute our water, increase purification costs, and threaten community health,” he warned.
Mbale: The World Bank in collaboration with the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) has launched the second phase of a river bank conservation and protection program targeting major water sources in Mbale City and Mbale District, with special focus on River Nabuyonga, which flows from the slopes of Mt. Wanale.
The initiative, aimed at raising environmental awareness and safeguarding water resources, brings together local leaders, environmental stakeholders, and cultural institutions to protect riverbanks through activities such as tree planting and sanitation education.
Representing the Bamasaaba cultural institution at the launch, Mr. Steven Masiga, the institution’s spokesperson, commended National Water for its commitment to conserving natural resources and protecting vital river ecosystems across the Bugisu region.
“Tree planting along the riverbanks is a significant step towards restoring and protecting our environment. We appreciate National Water for its continued efforts,” Masiga said.
He, however, raised concerns about the inappropriate use of water sources, cautioning members of the community especially some non-compliant individuals within the Bamasaaba against open defecation and bathing in rivers, practices he said are contrary to Bamasaaba cultural values and pose serious health risks.
“Our people must stop using rivers as latrines or bathing points. Such actions pollute our water, increase purification costs, and threaten community health,” he warned.
Masiga further emphasized the importance of inclusive grievance redress mechanisms in the implementation of the project. He called for visible representation of the cultural institution in mediating any conflicts that may arise between implementers and community members.
“We have been trained in dispute resolution by the Chief Justice himself. As cultural leaders, we are ready to help handle any misunderstandings to ensure smooth project execution,” Masiga noted.
The launch event was attended by officials from the Mbale District Environment Department, the Mbale Water Office, and NACOPART (National Community of Partners for Rural Transformation), the implementing agency based in Senior Quarters, Mbale City.
According to project facilitators, the conservation effort aims to protect riverbanks from degradation, promote afforestation along water catchments and raise awareness on proper sanitation and sustainable use of water sources.
Mr. Wandwasi Badru, an official from the water department, expressed concern over the increasing pollution of water sources feeding Mbale City.
He noted that despite sourcing clean water from the Mt. Elgon slopes, contamination from human activities has driven up water purification costs.
“We need urgent behavior change among residents to protect our rivers. Pollution is making water treatment more expensive and less sustainable,” Wandwasi said.
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