The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) Ltd has commissioned new and renovated sanitation facilities at Kabagarame Market in Sembabule District.
The project seeks to improve sanitation, public health and safety for traders and residents around the market.
The facilities sit near EACOP’s Main Camp and Pipe Yard 3 and are expected to serve more than 500 people from 16 neighbouring villages.
The communities include Kabayola, Kyemandwa A and B, Kagango, Kabusa, Kidokilo, Nambirizi, Muyenje, Kyololo, Nsambya, Njaza, Mitti, Mabaale, Kasekera, Kyatulo and Kisindi.
The project includes a 10-stance drainable pit latrine block for men and women. The structure has ventilation, lighting and privacy provisions.
EACOP also installed a rainwater harvesting tank and improved the surrounding environment.
The company says the intervention forms part of its community health and safety programme and supports Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation.
EACOP’s community investment programme covers future generations, the environment, community health and safety, water solutions and sustainable energy.
In Sembabule, the company has also provided 14 rainwater harvesting facilities to communities in Buzirandulu, Kiteredde and Njaza.
Speaking during the commissioning, EACOP Deputy Managing Director John Bosco Habumugisha said access to clean water and sanitation remains important to community health and productivity.
“Access to clean and safe water remains a significant challenge in Uganda. By providing this vital resource, we have taken a commendable step towards empowering the people of Kabagarame Market and enabling them to lead healthier and more productive lives,” Mr Habumugisha said.
Sembabule Assistant Resident District Commissioner Brian Rwamalinga welcomed the project and said proper sanitation and access to water remain essential for communities.
“There is no greater social dignity than access to proper sanitation and water. This facility has very ably addressed that need. We thank the East African Crude Oil Pipeline for contributing to closing the water and sanitation gap in communities where it operates,” Mr Rwamalinga said.
EACOP says it plans to continue working with communities and local authorities on projects that address health, water, safety and other identified needs.
The Kabagarame project comes as communities along the pipeline route continue to engage EACOP on the social and economic impact of the project.
