By Onzima Allan.

Residents of Pakondo village, located in the Adjumani town council, are facing an acute shortage of clean and reliable water—a situation that is affecting daily life, health, and economic wellbeing in this rural community. 

A GROWING WATER CRISIS:

In recent months, water scarcity in Pakondo has become more severe, with many households struggling to access sufficient water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. The scarcity is largely due to prolonged dry spells, insufficient water infrastructure, and the depletion of traditional water sources that once sustained the village. 

Villagers describe the challenge of waking up before dawn to fetch water from distant and diminishing sources. Many report walking several kilometers to reach boreholes or seasonal streams—journeys that are both physically demanding and time-consuming, especially for women and children who bear the primary responsibility for water collection. 

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES:

The lack of clean water is not only an inconvenience—locals warn it is a public health risk. With limited access to safe water, some residents are forced to use contaminated sources that increase vulnerability to waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. This has placed additional strain on families and local health services.

Children’s education is also being impacted. Many are arriving late to class—or missing school entirely—because they must help their families secure water. The burden on school attendance has community leaders deeply concerned about long-term educational outcomes. 

CALL FOR GOVERNMENT AND NGO SUPPORT:

Community members are appealing to government officials, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and development partners for urgent assistance. They are requesting: installation of reliable boreholes and water wells; water purification systems and facilities; and sustainable water infrastructure planning to prevent future shortages.

Local leaders emphasize that without immediate support, the water crisis in Pakondo will continue to undermine health, livelihoods, and the socio-economic prospects of the entire village. 

LOOKING AHEAD:

Efforts by residents to adapt—such as digging shallow wells and sharing limited water resources—illustrate the resilience of the community. However, sustainable change hinges on strategic investment and collaborative action.

It is hoped that this situation will attract the attention of stakeholders who can help transform the water landscape in Pakondo, ensuring that every household has access to safe and sufficient water.

END.