By Vicent Emong
Kumi District has officially commissioned several major Local Economic Growth Support (LEGS) projects valued at over Shs 4 billion, marking a significant milestone in infrastructure development and economic transformation within the district.
The commissioned projects include the Kajamaka earth dam and pipe water system (Shs 3.8 billion), the Kanyum/Kajamaka rice processing and storage facility (Shs 560 million), and the Tisai pipe water project (Shs 478 million), all aimed at improving livelihoods and boosting local productivity.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony Mr Rafael Magezi, the Minister for Local Government, , commended the successful implementation of the projects and expressed appreciation to all stakeholders involved.
❝ “I want to thank you so much for a project well-executed. This project has cost us quite some good amount of money, 3.8 billion. This is one of the big projects we have under the LEGS program, so congratulations.” ❞
— Rafael Magezi
He underscored the importance of the water projects in improving both household welfare and agricultural production in the district.
❝ “We are giving you water in the community. We are giving you water for production. We're going to do irrigation here.” ❞
— Rafael Magezi
Magezi also highlighted the health benefits associated with access to clean water, particularly in reducing waterborne diseases, and encouraged residents to fully utilize the new facilities.
❝ “Let the women enjoy having a tap outside their home instead of a jerry can on their heads… Our police and government are providing a self-cleaning water source for the village. That should help reduce domestic tensions.” ❞
— Rafael Magezi
The District Water Officer, Mr Peter Mawanga , explained the technical significance of the projects, noting that they are designed to increase safe water coverage while supporting agricultural activities.
❝ “Our main objective is to increase the water coverage of the district. The Kajamaka project, costing 3.8 billion shillings, provides both water for consumption and for production. The contractor did a great job.” ❞
— Peter Mawanga
He called on the community to take ownership of the facilities to ensure sustainability.
❝ “Our appeal to the community is to use the projects responsibly and start operating and maintaining them as their own facilities.” ❞
— Peter Mawanga
Mawanga further noted that the Tisai water supply project is the first of its kind in the sub-county, an area that has long been underserved and is now benefiting from piped water for the first time.
The Resident District Commissioner,Mr John Bosco Mubito , described the projects as transformative and a major step toward economic empowerment in the district.
❝ “We started with the Kajamaka earth dam, which will serve the people by providing water for production, irrigation, and safe drinking. Then we went to the Kanyum area cooperative, commissioning the rice milling center with a brand-new machine that turns garden rice into finished products.” ❞
— John Bosco Mubito
He revealed that the Ministry of Local Government has pledged additional support, including a transport lorry and Shs 100 million in capital to boost the operations of the cooperative.
❝ “Before the LEGS project, this area felt like a forgotten island. Now it is full of hope, a land of joy and business. I urge the community to protect and utilize these projects—they are a pathway out of poverty.” ❞
— John Bosco Mubito
The commissioning of the LEGS projects signals a new chapter for Kumi District, with leaders optimistic that improved access to water, agricultural infrastructure, and economic support will drive sustainable development and uplift livelihoods across the region.
