By: Paul Magezi
YUMBE
Today 21st August 2024,marked a milestone to showcase Uganda’s commitment towards the implementation of the 2023 Global Refugee Forum pledges on transition of water facilities in refugee settlements to national utility entities.
Fifteen water systems refurbished through the Austrian Development Agency and GIZ were handed over to the Ministry of Water and Environment under the Northern Umbrella Water and Sanitation Programme in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement, Yumbe District at a function presided over by the Assistant Commissioner Sewerage Services in the Ministry of Water and Environment. Eng. Richard Matua who represented the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Ministry of Water and Environment.
OPM technical staff present at the function including the Director CRRF, Ms. Helen Bugaari, who called for sustainability approaches to ensure the utility water schemes meet the water needs of refugees and host communities.
Present at the event were other technical staff of MoWE, the Political leadership of Yumbe District led by the Deputy Chairperson LCV Yumbe and technical leadership of Yumbe District led by the CAO Yumbe District. Also present were representatives of UNHCR, OPM Department of Refugees, partners and local leadership of the host community and refugees.
A new office building to house the Ministry of Water and Environment staff was also commissioned in Bidibidi Refugee Settlement.
Solar plant powering the water facilities
Tree planting to commemorate the handover of the water facilities
A group photo with some of the beneficiaries of the water facilities
Ms. Helen Bugaari the Director, CRRF Secretariat witnessing the handover of the water facilities
