Amolatar, Uganda – Residents of Muntu Township and Amirimiri Ward in Kioga Constituency yesterday February 21, 2025 celebrated the restoration of two crucial boreholes by Kiogo Constituency Aspiring NRM MP Col. Dr. Francis Ongia.
The initiative, which cost over UGX 2 Million, has brought relief to hundreds who had been struggling with access to clean water for over a year.
For over a year, the pupils of Muntu Township Primary School and the surrounding community had struggled to access clean water.
Simon Peter Olong, a resident of Kabangala, Muntu Township, described the dire situation: “Our children have been forced to walk long distances, begging for water from neighboring communities. Some people had to travel up to 4 kilometers to fetch water, risking snake bites and other dangers. But today, thanks to Col. Ongia, we finally have clean water again.”
The LC1 Chairperson of Muntu Township, Ojok Charles Olwa, echoed the community’s relief: “We had knocked on many doors for support, but no one came to our rescue. The cost of repairing the borehole was beyond our means. Col. Ongia has not only restored water but also restored life to this community. Our children can now focus on their studies without worrying about where to get drinking water.”
Col. Ongia’s coordinator for Muntu Subcounty, Erich Richard, provided technical details of the repair: “A total of 7 new stainless pipes, eight new rods, and a new cylinder were installed to restore functionality. In total, 18 pipes were used to ensure a thorough rehabilitation.”
In addition to Muntu Township, Col. Ongia extended his efforts to Amirimiri Ward in Amolatar Town Council, where another borehole had remained out of service for one year and seven months. The repair process involved ten new stainless pipes, ten new rods, and a brand-new cylinder.
According to Ayeni Andrew, alias Bishop, the head of mobilization for Col. Ongia in Kioga Constituency, the restoration of both boreholes cost over UGX 2 Million.
He assured the community that this initiative was not politically driven but a genuine effort to solve pressing water challenges.
“We are committed to repairing more boreholes across Kioga County because access to clean water is a fundamental right, not a privilege,” he said.
The restoration sparked widespread joy and gratitude among the residents. Imat Pamela Erabo, a resident of Amirimiri Ward, shared how the repair had deeply impacted her life: “I was sick, but when I heard that Ongia’s team was coming to repair our borehole, I gathered the strength to come and witness this miracle. Clean water is life, and Ongia has given us hope.” She urged residents to vote for Ongia, stating: “This is the kind of leadership we need—someone who values life over short-term political handouts.”
Ogang Slay, another resident, emphasized the broader impact of the borehole: “This water source is not just for daily use; it serves entire communities during social functions such as traditional marriage ceremonies and funerals. We must protect it.”
LC1 Chairperson of Amirimiri, Etyano Denis, praised Ongia’s generosity and called for further community development projects. “We have pleaded for help for so long. Today, we have been heard. We are deeply grateful for this act of kindness.”
Ongia’s mobilization coordinator, Okwir Joel Boteng, encouraged voters to elect leaders who bring real change: “Repairing a borehole is more valuable than giving out small amounts of money. Col. Ongia is using his personal resources to uplift this community. Imagine what he could do if he was in Parliament.”
He further highlighted Ongia’s close ties with President Yoweri Museveni, suggesting that his leadership could attract more government projects to Kioga Constituency.
“We need leaders who can bridge the gap between the people and national development programs,” he added.
As celebrations continue in Muntu Township and Amirimiri Ward, community leaders are urging residents to safeguard the rehabilitated boreholes.
Okello Full-Board, a local mobilizer, reminded the community: “These boreholes will only last if we take responsibility for their maintenance. Let us protect this water source for future generations.”
Col. Dr. Francis Ongia, who is vying for the Kioga Constituency MP seat under the NRM party in 2026, has gained significant admiration for his intervention.
With a growing reputation as a leader who prioritizes community welfare, his latest initiative has cemented his place as a frontrunner in the upcoming elections.
For now, the people of Kioga Constituency can drink clean water again, thanks to a leader who believes that real change starts with solving real problems.
