KISORO, Uganda—A new wastewater drainage system has been commissioned at the Nyakabande Refugee Transit Centre in Kisoro District, bringing much-needed relief to both Congolese refugees and the host community. The project, funded by the Israel Forum for International Humanitarian Aid (ISRAAID) at a cost of Shs61 million, aims to address sanitation challenges and improve living conditions in the overcrowded transit center and surrounding areas.

"Wastewater has been a major challenge at Nyakabande due to the large population here," said Ms. Jannattee Mukankusi, a resident of Nyakabande Trading Centre. "We’re grateful to ISRAAID for funding this project...sanitation and hygiene at the transit camp and surrounding communities will greatly improve."

The drainage system is designed to contain wastewater from the transit center, which had previously clogged pits and contributed to foul odors and mosquito breeding. According to Mr. Abel Kunobere, the Senior WASH Officer at ISRAAID, the new system will significantly reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, a persistent threat in densely populated refugee settlements. Project engineer Mr. William Rwanyarare noted that the project was completed in just 20 days and includes a six-month defect liability period, ensuring the quality and durability of the infrastructure.

Local leaders have lauded the project as a critical improvement to public health and sanitation. Mr. Robert Maniragaba, the Kanyabukungu LC I Chairperson, said, "This project is a huge relief to our community. We are grateful for the support." Kisoro District Engineer Mr. James Karamira also commended ISRAAID’s intervention, urging contractors to consider environmental safeguards during implementation to ensure the project's sustainability.

While praising the partnership with ISRAAID, Mr. Emma Munyantore, who heads the Nyakabande refugee transit centre, expressed concern about dwindling support for refugee services. He emphasized the growing needs of the refugee population and called for more sustained assistance from aid organizations and the government. The Kisoro District LCV Vice Chairperson, Mr. Alex Nambajimana, echoed this sentiment, advocating for the expansion of the Nyakabande Health Centre III and the inclusion of Kisoro in the Development Response to Displacement Impact Project (DRDIP).