Chinese Company Brings Modern Water Supply to Rural Uganda
Buikwe, Uganda – A new water treatment plant and pipeline system, built by a Chinese company,has brought clean and safe drinking water to over 800 households in five villages near Buikwe town in central Uganda. The project, completed on October 10, 2024, has marked a significant milestone in improving the lives of local residents who previously faced a daily struggle for access to clean water.
For years, residents of Buikwe, located near Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, had to walk for hours to reach the lake to collect water for their daily needs. The water they collected was often contaminated and hard, makingit unsuitable for drinking. This posed a serious health risk, particularly for children and the elderly.
In 2021, China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) Africa, recognizing the urgent need for improved water infrastructure, expressed interest incollaborating on the Buikwe water supply project. The company, known for its expertise in construction and infrastructure development, was selected to build the water treatment plant and pipeline system.
The project, which began in March 2022, faced several challenges. The construction of the water intake, located 100meters offshore, required innovative solutions due to the lake’s depth. CRCC Africa successfully implemented a ferry-based construction method, overcoming the initial difficulties posed by the traditional cofferdam approach.
During the project, CRCC Africa also identified design errors in the pipeline layout. The company promptly organized a team to re-survey the area and optimize the design, ensuring the project’s effectiveness and gaining the approval of all stakeholders.
The project has also significantly contributed to local employment. CRCC Africa employed over 200 Ugandan workers for various roles, including management and construction, boosting the local economy and providing valuable skills training opportunities.
The completion of this project means that residents finally have access to clean and safe water, ensuring their health and well-being, said Arahi Fred, a young safety engineer who worked on the project for three years. This project has also helped me grow professionally, and I am grateful for the skills and support providedby the Chinese company.
The Buikwe water supply project is a testament to the positive impact of Chinese companies in developing countries. By providing essential infrastructure and creating employment opportunities, Chinese companies are contributing to sustainable development and improving the lives of people around the world.
References:
- People’s Daily (2024, October 15). 中企助力乌干达农村实现供水现代化. Retrieved from https://www.people.com.cn/n1/2024/1015/c1006-32626764.html
- China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) Africa website. Retrieved from https://www.crcc.com.cn/en/
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