Probe Launched as Ugandan Water Project Faces Allegations of Exploiting Communities

The government has ordered immediate investigations into a non-governmental organization (NGO) that has been running water supply projects in Uganda, particularly in the districts of Luwero and Wakiso. This action follows mounting concerns from local residents, who have called for the President’s intervention, accusing the NGO of profiteering under the guise of collecting maintenance and subscription fees.

According to reports, the NGO has been charging maintenance fees significantly higher than the recommended rates for community water services. While the approved maintenance fee should not exceed 2,000 Ugandan shillings per household, the NGO has been imposing a fee of 5,000 shillings. With approximately 40,000 households subscribed, the organization is estimated to earn over 180 million shillings per month—a figure that exceeds the revenue collected by the regional National Water and Sewerage Corporation.

Government has always expressed deep concern over these findings, emphasizing that NGOs offering essential services should not exploit their operations for profit. Hon Oduak stated, “If an NGO is offering a service, it should not be used as a business. The reported figures are alarming and need urgent examination.”

The investigation will also assess the manner in which local government agencies have been signing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with the NGO. Early findings suggest that lax oversight may have enabled the organization’s unchecked activities.

Residents in Luwero and Wakiso have welcomed the intervention, hoping for greater transparency and fairness in the delivery of essential services. The outcome of this investigation is expected to set a precedent for accountability and the protection of local communities across Uganda.