Ntoroko District is grappling with a severe drought, leaving the pastoralist sub-counties of Rwebisengo, Butungama, Bweramule, Kanara, and Kibuku in crisis. With water sources drying up and pasture becoming scarce, hundreds of cattle are perishing, pushing families deeper into poverty.
For years, pastoralists have urged the government to construct valley dams to provide a stable water supply during dry spells. Two years ago, the Government pledged to build underground water tanks, but no action has been taken. As a result, desperate herders are now trekking over 25 kilometers, and others are crossing into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in search of water. Others rely on contaminated sources, increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.
David Kisembo, a pastoralist, describes the hardship: “Our cattle are our livelihood, but they are dying. Without water, we lose everything.” Muhigi Stephen, a student, fears he may not be able to afford school fees as livestock weaken and lose market value.
Milk production in the district has plummeted from 10,000 liters per day during the rainy season to barely 1,000 liters in the dry season. Farmers are now forced to transport water from Kabarole, 40 kilometers away, just to keep their cattle alive.
Despite RIWE_AFRICA’s efforts in training pastoralists on water harvesting and the construction of valley dams, only a handful have managed to implement the practice due to financial constraints. RIWE_AFRICA has supported the construction of at least four community valley dams, benefiting a few pastoralists who have access. However, these are not enough to serve the entire affected population, leaving thousands still vulnerable. Without urgent intervention, the livelihoods of many remain at risk RIWE_AFRICA stands with the affected communities and calls on the government to fulfill its commitment to sustainable water solutions. The time for action is now, and pastoralists cannot wait any longer