Access to safe water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene practices are essential for health, dignity, and development. In Yumbe District, Rotary is making that a reality through the Rotary Global Grant 2237714 – WASH in Yumbe Project, a multi-partner initiative aimed at reaching 18,000 people across 12 villages.
Project Objectives
The project focuses on:
Drilling and installing boreholes using the innovative Mzuzu well technology adapted from Malawi.
Promoting household sanitation and hygiene through construction of latrines and handwashing stations.
Distributing and training households on point-of-use water filters and Bio Sand Filters.
Building sustainability by establishing Rotary Community Corps (RCCs) and training water user committees.
Reducing waterborne diseases, medical costs, and absenteeism, while creating opportunities for women and children.
Key Achievements So Far
20 boreholes drilled across 12 villages (out of a target of 37).
575 household latrines and handwashing facilities constructed.
976 household water filters and buckets distributed.
60 Bio Sand Filters donated and distributed.
148 water user committee members trained in management and maintenance.
18 RCC members trained to champion hygiene and mobilization.
Ongoing community sensitization on sanitation and safe water use.
Villages Benefiting
The project directly impacts 12 villages: Oyaru, Boma, Yumbe East, Injua, Odropi, Morodu, Chana, Midonga, Luzira, Kena, Kendra, and Adunga.
Impact on Communities
Safe water access has increased significantly.
Reports show a reduction in diarrheal diseases and other water-borne illnesses.
Women and girls are saving time once spent collecting water, and are now engaging in education and income-generating activities.
Households now enjoy improved sanitation, reducing disease spread.
Community ownership and sustainability have strengthened through active RCCs and water user committees.
Conflicts at water sources have reduced as access has improved.
Partners and Support
This initiative is possible thanks to strong partnerships:
Rotary Foundation (Global Grant funding)
Rotary Club of Yumbe (Host Club, lead implementer)
Rotary Club of Arua (Mother Club & Host Sponsor)
P2P Inc. (USA) – USD 60,000 contribution and technical expertise
Thirst Relief through Connect Africa Ministries – donated 60 Bio Sand Filters (USD 6,000)
CCEDUC (Care Education Center Uganda) – RCC-led implementation partner
Individual champions such as Chris Roesel and Helene Dudley of TCP Global
Financial Snapshot
Total Budget: USD 118,654 (UGX 433 million)
Expenditure to July 2025: UGX 318.9 million
Remaining Funds: UGX 114.2 million (earmarked for final boreholes, training, commissioning, and project close-out)
Looking Ahead
With 17 more boreholes to be drilled and final activities including commissioning, training, audits, and reporting, the Yumbe WASH Project continues to be a beacon of how Rotary changes lives. By addressing water, sanitation, and hygiene needs, the project is paving the way for healthier communities, empowered women, and brighter futures for children in Yumbe.