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Gulu, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | More than 8,000 residents across Gulu City are set to gain access to clean and safe drinking water following completion of four spring wells, thanks to a collaborative effort between MTN Uganda’s philanthropic arm, MTN Foundation and Safe Water Uganda, a community-based organisation.
This initiative, part of the transformative MTN Changemakers Initiative that was launched in July last year, aims to positively impact communities by addressing critical needs and fostering development.
The spring wells have been constructed in Pawel Central Cell, Pawel Ward in Laroo-Pece Division, Katikati and Keyi A in in Bar Dege-Layibi Division, and Lawiyadul in Laliya Ward Laroo in Pece Division with an investment worth UGX 19.9million.
Speaking during the handover event of a newly constructed spring well at Pawel Central Cell in Pawel Ward, Laroo-Pece Division, Dan Opiyo, General Manager Labule Telecom, said the initiative aligns seamlessly with MTN Uganda’s Ambition 2025 strategy, emphasizing the role of technology and innovative partnerships in driving community empowerment and economic growth.
“We at MTN Uganda believe that everyone deserves the benefits of a modern connected life irrespective of their social and economic status and this includes access to safe clean drinking water,” he said.
“The completion of these wells marks a critical milestone in supporting our government towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6, which emphasizes the importance of clean water and sanitation for all.”
For years, Gulu City has faced challenges in providing adequate clean water to its rapidly growing population. Despite government investments, many residents, burdened by limited income having emerged from a prolonged war which ended nearly two decades ago, have struggled with accessing safe water sources.
“These new spring wells symbolises a leap towards breaking the cycle of poverty, enhancing education through reduced absenteeism, and empowering women and girls who are often tasked with water collection,” Opiyo said, adding that the initiative lays the groundwork for sustainable community development, where health and prosperity can flourish.
The Safe Water Uganda Founder, Christopher Nyero, said they are deeply grateful for the partnership with MTN Uganda, which has enabled them to reach more communities with clean water solutions.
“Together, we are not just providing water; we are transforming lives and empowering communities towards a brighter, healthier future,” he said.
The MTN Foundation under the MTN Changemakers Initiative has earmarked UGX 500 million for 25 selected projects across the nation, spanning economic empowerment, education, health, water, sanitation, and hygiene, targeting youth, women, persons with disabilities, and rural communities.
Some of the beneficiaries include Kalaa Mugosi Women Empowerment in Sironko, Rotaract Club of Masaka, Prime Time at Makerere University in Kampala and Tusitukire Wamu Development Association in Wakiso District.
Over the last decade, the MTN Foundation has dedicated UGX 30 billion towards more than 250 projects in education, health, youth empowerment, water, sanitation and hygiene, and humanitarian response significantly impacting communities nationwide and cementing its position as a catalyst for positive change and development in Uganda.
