Butaleja Community Raises Alarm Over Cholera Risk from Contaminated Water Sources

Residents of Busaba Sub-County in Butaleja District are at risk of contracting cholera, dysentery, typhoid, and other waterborne diseases due to the contamination of local water sources. 

Robert Gadunya, the LC III  Chairperson for Busaba Sub-County, explains that one of the boreholes at Busaba Project Primary School is contaminated with feces. Despite this, many people from the surrounding communities continue to draw water from the borehole for domestic use, including drinking.

Gadunya says that the borehole serves nearly 6,000 people, and noted that nearby latrines broke down during recent rains when River Manafwa burst, causing flooding and worsening the contamination risk. 

Richard Wasike, the Butaleja district water engineer, explained that both Busaba and Mazimasa Sub-Counties are densely populated, with tightly packed homes where latrines are located too close to water sources. According to regulations, a borehole must be located at least 30 meters away from toilets.

Wasike has instructed that any toilets found too close to water sources be demolished. Henry Isogoli, the district health inspector, stated that he had been informed of the issue by the sub-county's health inspector and promised immediate action. 

District officials in Butaleja are currently developing plans to raise awareness and prevent the spread of cholera within the community. They also appealed to residents to be vigilant, wash their hands regularly, and ensure their toilets and washrooms remain clean to reduce the risk of disease.