Water supply landscape in Kabarole district, Uganda

Roles and responsibilities for water service provision in Uganda are evolving, creating a dynamic water supply landscape in Kabarole district. The District Water Office has the responsibility to coordinate water service development, considering the priorities of the Ministry of Water and Environment, the Local Government, and the needs of citizens.

Rural water systems in Kabarole district struggle with operational and financial management. Rural service providers lack adequate capacity and support to ensure reliable service delivery. According to a 2017 water point inventory, 65% of rural water systems in Kabarole are unreliable (i.e., non-functional >10 days in the preceding year). Low user willingness-to-pay for water compounds these challenges.

Fecal contamination of drinking water is widespread throughout Kabarole district. Approximately 65% of rural water sources do not meet national microbial water quality standards. Most water users are unaware of contamination and subsequent risks.

Presently, the majority of Kabarole's water supply systems receive no treatment or regular testing; however, the importance of water quality is gaining recognition amongst district authorities, which is an opportunity to promote water safety management practices. [author summary].