On 12 December 2025, EACOP commissioned new community water sources in Kabayoola and Nseese villages in Sembabule District, in Uganda, marking a significant step in restoring safe, reliable, and affordable water for communities affected by the pipeline project. The ceremony brought together community members, local leaders, district officials, and EACOP representatives to officially hand over the completed facilities.
The commissioned facilities including a piped water extension in Kabayoola Village and a solar-powered valley tank in Nseese Village will dramatically reduce the cost of water, with a jerrycan now costing UGX 100 compared to the previous UGX 1,000 to carter for costs such as maintenance and water bills especially in Kabayoola where water kiosks have been constructed. These interventions are part of EACOP’s water provision programme, which replaces all communal water sources affected by the project’s Right of Way in line with the Resettlement Action Plan, alongside full compensation for affected water assets. So far, 18 communal water sources have been restored across 10 pipeline districts, benefiting approximately 924 households.
Rosie Birungi, our Social Performance Manager, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to community-driven and sustainable solutions, noting that in Sembabule, where groundwater potential is low, replacement options were guided by extensive consultations and technical assessments. Local leaders, including the LC1 Chairperson, highlighted the long-standing water challenges faced by the communities and welcomed the new facilities as a major boost to health, sanitation, and livelihoods.
Technical and administrative perspectives were also shared during the event. The District Water Officer and representatives from NWSC commended the quality and suitability of the water systems. The representative from the offices of the LC5 Chairperson, the Resident District Commissioner, and the Chief Administrative Officer delivered remarks on behalf of district leadership and applauded the strong collaboration between EACOP, local government, and communities, and emphasised the importance of proper operation, maintenance, and community ownership to ensure sustainability.
Through this initiative, EACOP continues to demonstrate its commitment to restoring essential services and supporting sustainable development for host communities along the pipeline route.
