When community members take center stage.

Joint Effort to Save the Environment—Jese, in partnership with the Bunyangabu district, Ruboona Town Council leadership, and the local community, with funding from SIMAVI, rehabilitated a community shallow well under the WASH, Learn and Share Programme.

In the outcast of Bunyangabu district, a shallow well in Buhuuna village. The well has served and is still serving generations across over 200 households.

The well broke down. The handle, pump, and platform all broke down. This meant no access to clean water, leaving community members to walk long distances in search of water. The well was not fenced, giving free access to animals. In the long run, the slabs were destroyed.

Community members, through the Local Council Chairperson, informed the Jese field Officer during routine fieldwork and shared the challenges faced in search for water.

Water, being one of the areas of Jese’s focus, was given priority, working closely with community members and leaders.  

Community members mobilized construction materials, including stones, sand, cement, and offered free labour.

Speaking to Mr. Alituha Richard, Program Coordinator, WASH, Learn, and Share programme, he shared that, “When the community is involved, they give their kind contribution. Just like this community in Buhuuna Rubona”

 Speaking to the community members during the handover of the rehabilitated shallow well on 30^th July 2025, Mr. Kalenzi Augustine, the LC 1, appreciated Jese, SIMAVI, Town Council leadership, and the community members for not sitting and waiting.

 Speaking to Ms. Mutegeki Mariam, the Assistant Engineer Officer in charge of water in Ruboona TC, she shared that their community has always struggled to access water, yet the Town Council could not finance the rehabilitation of the well. We are very grateful for the support Jese extended to the community in Buhuuna. She further asked the community members to own the program and continue protecting water resources.

“I don’t know how you do your research, but you handle community issues well.” She noted.

Mr. Tinkasimire Francis, Ruboona Town Council Mayor, thanked Jese for the transparency exhibited during the rehabilitation and handover of the project.

You could have thought about any other community, but you thought about Buhuuna-Ruboona. Thank the donor for allowing us to share their resources with us.

“Let’s guard the water sources, saying it’s wealth. When the community owns the project, no one takes charge. We are tasking a committee of 8 members to ensure sustainable utilization of the Buhuuna water source.” He noted. “Additional materials will be provided by the Town Council to complete plastering our well to ensure it’s fully protected.” He added.

• We are grateful.l
• We are happy.
• We are willing to continue working with you (Jese). Just call us.

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