WATSAN Uganda is pleased to report strong progress on the Kazuru gravity flow scheme, a major infrastructure project designed to bring clean, safe water to communities. The work completed this quarter marks a significant step forward in improving public health and daily life for hundreds of households.
Improved access to water
Fourteen public tap stands have now been constructed, connected, and pressure-tested. Each tap stand serves more than 20 households, providing reliable access to water within walking distance. In several locations, residents have built protective fencing around the taps to prevent damage from livestock – an encouraging sign of community ownership and care.
Engineering milestones
This quarter saw the completion of over 1.3 km of trenching for pipeline installation, the construction of three stream crossings to maintain uninterrupted flow, and thorough leak testing and junction connections to ensure system integrity. These technical achievements mean that water is now flowing safely and consistently to the tap stands, reducing the time and physical burden of collecting water and lowering the risk of waterborne disease.
Sanitation and hygiene improvements
Field staff visited 120 households to assess sanitation practices and offer guidance. Of these, 91 homes now have improved latrines, with additional units under construction. Seventy-one households have installed two-step dish drying racks, supporting safer food preparation. Since the project began, 98 sanitation platforms (Sanplats) have been installed – 27 of them during this quarter alone. These improvements contribute directly to better health outcomes and a cleaner living environment.
Demonstration homes and composting
Three new demonstration homes were established this quarter, showcasing best practices in hygiene and sanitation. Composting is also becoming more widespread, with 47 households using three-pile systems and 58 opting for compost pits – reducing waste and improving soil quality.
Community leadership and training
Two stakeholder meetings were held at Rushamba Church of Uganda, bringing together WATSAN staff, local government officials, and religious leaders. Water User Committees were trained in hygiene promotion, financial management, and community engagement. Each committee includes a chairperson, secretary, treasurer, caretaker, and two additional members. These groups play a vital role in maintaining the infrastructure and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Looking ahead
WATSAN Uganda UK Support is contiuing to fundraise towards Phase 2 of the Kazuru scheme. This will include the installation of toilet facilities in schools and other institutions along the pipeline; and the extension of the pipeline into the Batwa community – a particularly marginalised group in Ugandan society, living on the outskirts of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
WATSAN Uganda 