Otuke, Uganda – The Otuke District Council Hall was yesterday 22nd November 2024, venue for a landmark presentation by the International Lifeline Fund (ILF) as it unveiled a series of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects valued at UGX 400 million.
The initiatives aim to address water scarcity, improve sanitation, and promote environmental sustainability across the district.
During the presentation, ILF representative Isaac Okello detailed the rehabilitation of six boreholes—three each in Olilim and Ogwete sub-counties—to address critical water shortages. Additionally, eight new boreholes have been constructed, with four allocated to each sub-county.
“These projects are designed to provide clean and safe water to communities that have struggled with inadequate supply,” Okello explained.
To protect these water sources and promote sustainability, ILF is constructing brick wall fences around the boreholes at UGX 2 million each. The fences will also be painted with hygiene messages to encourage proper water handling practices within the communities.
Okello announced that ILF is constructing two blocks of five-stand drainable latrines in seven schools across Otuke. The facilities, expected to be completed by December 2024, will provide much-needed sanitary infrastructure for pupils, enhancing hygiene and reducing the risk of disease.
“These latrines are a crucial step in creating a healthier learning environment for children,” Okello noted.
ILF has mobilized Village Health Teams (VHTs) and community trainers to educate residents on water hygiene and sanitation. The training sessions are aimed at fostering long-term behaviour change to sustain the benefits of these projects.
In addition to its WASH initiatives, ILF is implementing environmental programs in Otuke. These include installing institutional stoves in schools to improve cooking efficiency and introducing upgraded community cookstoves, which are more energy-efficient than the older “okelo kuc” models.
“These programs complement our core focus on WASH by addressing environmental and energy challenges in the communities we serve,” Okello said.
ILF’s Everflow service is currently operational in Kwania and Apac districts. Plans are underway to extend this service to Otuke, pending discussions with local authorities.
The presentation at Otuke District Council Hall highlighted ILF’s dedication to transforming lives through innovative and sustainable solutions. Since beginning its work in Otuke in 2022, ILF has focused on addressing the district’s most pressing needs.
“While our core mandate is WASH, our additional programs ensure a holistic approach to community development,” Okello concluded.
With ongoing projects and plans for expansion, ILF’s initiatives are set to bring long-term benefits to Otuke, improving access to clean water, sanitation, and sustainable energy solutions for its residents.
