RRLA Forums

🟢 1st RRLA Forum

(Details to be added or linked if available)

🟢 2nd RRLA Forum

Theme: Promoting Good Governance for Improvement in WASH Service Delivery

Good governance is widely recognized as essential for achieving sustainable Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services. Yet, its practical implementation at the community level remains challenging due to limited understanding of what "good governance" truly means in local contexts.

On 28th and 29th February 2012, WASH stakeholders from across the Rwenzori region gathered at Tooro Resort for the second Regional Learning Forum. The event brought together over 60 participants from seven districts, along with a delegation of 10 representatives from the Northern Region Dutch WASH Alliance.

Participants included:

• Dutch WASH Alliance partners (HEWASA, JESE, PROTOS, AMREF, Caritas Gulu)

• Government ministries

• District and Sub-County officials

• Local and international NGOs

• Higher education institutions

• Private sector organizations

Together, they shared field experiences and discussed innovative approaches to improving governance in WASH service delivery.

🌍 Spotlight: The “Omuhiigo” Strategy

What is Omuhiigo?
“Omuhiigo” is a traditional communal management system practiced in Kabarole District, where community members and leaders gather monthly at local water sources to contribute labor, materials, and ideas for maintenance and improvement.

On the designated day:

• The Local Council I Chairperson sounds drums at 7:00 AM to signal the start.

• Households assemble at the water source with tools such as hoes, pangas, spades, wheelbarrows, and brooms.

• Contributions include manual labor, financial support, and payment of water user fees.

• The Water Source Committee reports on operation and maintenance (O&M) funds and functionality.

• Records of activities are submitted to the Village Health Team (VHT) and forwarded to the Sub-County Community Development Officer.

💡 Traditional Systems as Solutions

The Omuhiigo strategy, piloted in Ruteete and Hakibaale Sub-Counties, has proven to be a culturally appropriate and effective solution for addressing WASH operation and maintenance challenges. It encourages accountability and active participation from both leaders and community members, reinforcing sustainable management of WATSAN facilities.

📄 [Read More]