A partnership between a global technology company and the local community in Buliisa, Uganda is providing clean water to thousands and empowering residents to live healthier, safer lives.

Buliisa District is known to struggle with surface and untreated water and, in most cases, residents must travel long distances to access clean water. This increases the risks of waterborne diseases and unsafe situations for women and children travelling to the water areas.

To help tackle this issue, SLB, a global technology company, is collaborating with local authorities and community stakeholders to provide safe and sustainable water systems in the region, focusing on new borehole construction and rehabilitation, education, and awareness-raising initiatives.

"Our objective is to develop, implement, and monitor projects that successfully respond to SLB’s commitment to climate action, people and nature, and to make an impactful contribution towards the UN sustainable development goals," said a spokesperson for SLB.

Working closely with the local authorities, and community stakeholders, SLB identified 11 boreholes across eight villages in Buliisa that needed new construction and rehabilitation. They also expanded their support to education and awareness-raising initiatives focused on water conservation and hygiene practices, which will play a pivotal role in ensuring the long-term success of such water supply initiatives.

The company has also established water and sanitation committees and self-help groups to encourage locals to take ownership and responsibility for water resources.

Empowering residents to maintain water quality and manage resources effectively are essential and foster a sense of stewardship and commitment towards sustaining the improvements of water supply initiatives. These collaborative efforts can lead to long-term positive impacts on the community’s access to safe and clean water.