Church World Service and Church of Uganda (COU) Planning Development & Rehabilitation (COU/PDR)

April 23, 2008

In Nkongooro Parish, Ntungamo district, seasonal wells befouled by animal waste have been the main source of water. And, during the dry season, they dry up, forcing a 7-8 mile walk to get water.

This year, 350 of the most vulnerable families (about 3,534 people) are gaining year-round access to clean water and working to preserve the environment, with the help of Church World Service and partner the Church of Uganda.

Eight water sources (wells and springs) will be structurally protected from contamination and additional wells dug. The community is contributing labor and locally available resources like stones, sand, and clay. Families will have more clean water for household use, reducing the risk of waterborne disease. With the new, more accessible water sources, women and children will have more time to invest in studies and income- generating activities.

Families are also learning new agricultural and agro-forestry techniques, and each family is planting 50 fruit trees. The trees will provide windbreaks, and the fruit will be an added source of nutrition for the families.