Health 29 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Solar Water System Brings Relief to Kigwera Health Centre III in Buliisa
A new solar-powered water system at Kigwera Health Centre III in Buliisa district has ended the daily struggle of staff and patients trekking long distances for water. Supported by TotalEnergies and Engineers Without Borders East Africa, the initiative ensures steady supply for critical areas like maternity wards, boosting hygiene and patient care. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/solar-powered-water-system-rescues-stressed-kigwera-health-centre-iii-5407024
Staff at Kigwera Health Centre III in Buliisa district are celebrating the installation of a solar-powered water system that eliminates the need to fetch water from distant sources.
Previously, patients and health workers had to walk up to a kilometre to the nearest borehole. Facility in-charge Francis Kugonza recounted how a nurse made seven trips with a jerrycan just to start her shift, highlighting the severe impact on operations.
The new setup, donated by TotalEnergies, features a borehole with a yield of 65,000 litres per hour and solar-powered pumps feeding elevated storage tanks. This enables gravity-fed water distribution to maternity wards, theatres, and other key areas.
Engineers Without Borders East Africa, led by Executive Director Peter Nzabanita, confirmed the systems underwent pump and quality testing to meet health standards and facility demands. Similar upgrades were made at Avogera and Anaka health centres.
Health workers note that the change reduces the workload on lower-cadre staff, allowing more focus on patient care, improved hygiene, and safer deliveries.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)