By Our Reporter
SERERE
After being out of service for over 30 years, the repair of a borehole has brought much-needed relief to over 500 residents of Akumoi II Village and nearby areas in Pingire sub-county, Serere District, granting them access to clean water without the long treks they had to endure before.
This restoration is part of a much larger effort spearheaded by Esther Lucy Achom, the Serere District Woman Member of Parliament. Just six months into her term, she has successfully repaired more than 150 boreholes across the district.
Residents expressed their gratitude for the recently repaired borehole, which has eliminated the need to walk more than five kilometers to find safe drinking water at the Agule village borehole.
John Ongodia, who noted that he was born in 1998 when the borehole was out of commission, praised MP Achom for restoring it within such a short time after taking office.
Margaret Achom mentioned that the involvement of young leaders has made a significant difference, enabling MP Achom to accomplish this impressive feat quickly.
On Sunday, November 8th, 2026, MP Achom also revitalized the Olele borehole in Labor sub-county, which had been inactive for nearly a year. This vital water source now serves over 60 families in the villages of Olele, Otoba, Opunoi, and Obangin.
Mzee Etilu from Olele village shared that many leaders had previously avoided fixing the borehole due to its proximity to the swamp, but he commended Hon. Achom for overcoming these challenges.
On Monday, November 9, 2026, two more boreholes—one at Asilang mosque in Atiira sub-county and another at Aminit in Kateta sub-county—were repaired.
Uthman Okurut, the caretaker of the mosque borehole, expressed the difficulties caused by its prolonged neglect, which made it challenging for the community to manage their prayers. He noted that over 100 households, along with the entire Muslim community, have now been positively impacted.
Zaitum Ayupu shared that the lack of water had hindered their ability to pray, while LC1 Chairperson Asilang, Joseph Ojoma, praised MP Achom for her attentiveness to her constituents, attributing the borehole repairs to her dedication.
Residents like Florence Abeja mentioned their longing for a young leader to take charge, as they often see them as more proactive.
Madina Asio and Abeja recounted how the struggle to access water led to domestic strife, with men sometimes doubting their wives’ whereabouts when they returned late from distant boreholes.
They appealed to MP Achom for support in uplifting women’s groups, as they have often felt overlooked by such initiatives.
Rose Adeo and Florence Betty Okedi of Kanyangan-Kateta noted their relief from the burden of traveling long distances for water.
Meanwhile, John Robert Opio, a resident of Aminit in Kateta, expressed hope that MP Achom would remain in power for over 20 years, given the visible change she has already brought to the community. He also urged her to extend her support to local churches.
Paul Ekotait, the coordinator for MP Achom in Serere County, called on the community to take initiative in maintaining and safeguarding their boreholes to prevent contamination and enhance hygiene. He stressed the importance of fencing and forming water user management committees.
Isaiah Ocen, the political assistant to MP Achom, emphasized the mission of ensuring every district resident has access to safe and clean water, driving home the message that water is essential for life.
Ocen also encouraged beneficiaries to take responsible charge of the boreholes and to set up effective maintenance committees to ensure the longevity of these crucial resources.
Amos Ochom, one of the leaders working with MP Achom, noted that prioritizing borehole repairs is part of a larger commitment to public health, highlighting the vital role clean water plays in maintaining overall well-being.
Residents shared their sincere appreciation for MP Achom’s efforts in restoring a previously inactive borehole, recognizing her commitment to improving water access in the district.
MP Achom’s team reassured constituents that this is only the beginning, with more services and improvements on the horizon.
