WASH INTERVENTIONS IN DOKOLO DISTRICT

Dokolo District in Northern Uganda has a population of approximately 215,625 people, with nearly half under the age of 15. Despite progress in water access, the district still faces significant challenges: 126 villages remain without clean water and rising water levels from Lake Kwania have displaced households and contaminated sources further straining communities. In Amwoma and Okwalongwen Sub-Counties, where this project is focused, the situation is particularly urgent. Together, the two sub-counties have a combined population of 28,708 residents, yet only 49% have access to safe water. This means more than half of households over 2,900 are still relying on unsafe sources exposing families to waterborne diseases and undermining sanitation and hygiene.

The lack of safe water leads to increased waterborne diseases, poor sanitation, and reduced productivity. Women and children bear the burden of fetching water, limiting economic opportunities and education. To address these challenges, a three-year WASH project is planned, starting with the construction of 8 deep wells. Additionally, training programs for hand pump mechanics, water user committees, Village Savings and Loan Associations, and Community Health Committees will ensure sustainability.

This intervention will enhance water access, promote hygiene, and improve overall community well-being. By addressing WASH challenges, the project will reduce disease prevalence, improve educational outcomes, and enhance livelihoods, ultimately fostering sustainable development in Dokolo District.

• Construct and commission 4 new wells at previously deferred sites, contributing to a total of 8–10 fully functional wells providing safe and reliable water access

• Ensure pump testing, water quality analysis, and ongoing technical support to guarantee safety and long-term functionality

• Facilitate formal commissioning by Dokolo District Local Government to strengthen accountability and reinforce community ownership

• Promote strong community management structures for effective maintenance and sustainability of water resources

• Improve sanitation and hygiene practices through training and awareness, leading to a reduction in waterborne diseases

• Integrate water access with environmental protection measures, enhancing resilience against challenges such as soil erosion and deforestation

• Strengthen economic empowerment through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), enabling families to save, access credit, and invest in small enterprises

Divine Agency for Integrated Development (DivineAid), founded in 2001, works to provide safe water, sanitation, and community empowerment to underserved communities. Guided by its motto “Community Hope Alive,” the organization integrates water access with health, environmental protection, and economic resilience. Over 25 years, DivineAid has operated in 30 districts across Uganda and supported projects in Kenya, Sudan, and Malawi, constructing over 1,000 wells and improving lives. A key driver of its impact is a 20-year partnership with Ryan’s Well Foundation, sharing a commitment to sustainability and community empowerment. Looking ahead, DivineAid aims to build 2,000 wells in the next decade, expanding its reach and continuing to transform communities.

Every effort is made to designate your funds as requested; however, if the specified project has become fully funded or unforeseen circumstances delay its start, we may allocate your donation to another important project.