Despite water being a human right, prisoners in Luzira are in atotal mess due to lack of water supply.
Access to safe drinking water and sanitation are internationally recognized human rights, derived from the right to an adequate standard of living under Article 11(1) of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) disconnected water services to Luzira Prisons Complex due to unpaid water bill arrears amounting to Shs18.3 billion
The disconnection, undertaken on August 13, has raised significant concerns, given the impact on both inmates and staff within the facility with out water and proper sewage system.
Despite the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development releasing Shs2.3 billion in the first quarter of the 2024/25 fiscal year, part of the budgeted Shs79 billion allocated to NWSC, the outstanding arrears remain unresolved.
“On August 13th, 2024, the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) disconnected water services to the Luzira Prisons Complex due to outstanding water bill arrears of Shs. 18,272,450,274,” he said. Baine said the disconnection of water supply to the facility occurred despite the Ministry of Finance releasing Shs.
Uganda Prisons Service has confirmed Luzira Prison being disconnected by National Water and Sewerage Corporation over arrears worth shs18 billion.
Prisons spokesperson, Frank Baine confirmed the development.
“The disconnection occurred despite the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development releasing shs2.3 billion in the first quarter of the financial year 2024/25 which is part of the budgeted shs7.9 billion that has already been remitted to NWSC,” Baine said.
He said whereas the matter is of national concern , Prisons is currently utilizing water bowsers to mitigate a water crisis.
Baine said negotiations are currently ongoing between the Ministry of Finance, Internal Affairs, Uganda Prisons and NWSC to solve the impasse.
“The affected prisoners and staff are urged to remain calm as long term solutions are being sought. Uganda Prisons Services remains committed to upholding its missions of providing safe, secure and human custody of offenders.”
