In collaboration with Humasol, a Belgium-based non-profit organization specializing in renewable energy solutions, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has developed water purification and irrigation projects aimed at tackling critical challenges faced by local communities. These initiatives focus on providing clean drinking water at the Kihumuro campus and introducing sustainable irrigation methods to support agriculture, particularly in Isingiro, where the irrigation project is underway.
The projects were designed by MUST students under the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology together with students from Humasol under the guidance of mentors from both institutions. Preparations for the projects were for a year, and implementation lasted from July 4 to August 24, 2024 coordinated by MUST IUC – UCoBS Sub – Project 3 titled “Increased Access and Utilization of Affordable Energy.” Under Humasol, the students were from Ghent University and KU Leuven and these were; Aaron Janssens, Renne Kelem, Xander Maes, Dunia Tornilla, Gabrielle de Barsy, Zacharias Guislain, Jesse Schoofs and Willem van Melle. The MUST students were; Hope Morian, James Ongica, Aurelia Kyarisima, Micheal Akamba, Belinda Ariho Denese, Leon Kazini, Gabriel Uchendu.
Giving introduction remarks during the final presentations on August 23, 2024, Dr. Obungoloch highlighted the project’s goal to provide clean water and safe drinking water at Kihumuro Campus—a critical challenge in the area. He emphasized the importance of the irrigation, noting the community’s reliance on a sustainable water source for agriculture. Both projects made progress towards addressing water scarcity and promoting environmental sustainability.
Water Purification Project Presentation
The water purification project, presented by Ms. Aurelia Kyarisiima and her team members, introduced a solar-powered system that delivers purified drinking water to students and staff at Kihumuro campus. The system operates on a 24V power supply, ensuring sustainability while minimizing operational costs. Aurelia highlighted the decision to use solar energy, which is both environmentally friendly and cost-effective compared to diesel pumps.
To access water, students can use a coin-based system, paying 100, 200, or 500 UGX for 250 ml of purified water. Regarding maintenance, the team explained the need for regular filter backflushing, chlorination, and bio-sand filter checks to ensure consistent water quality. The water quality tests will be conducted weekly to meet health standards.
Irrigation Project Presentation
The irrigation project being implemented at Prof. Bitariho’s farm in Isingiro District, aimed to reduce costs and improve the sustainability of farming activities by using innovative irrigation technologies. The project focused on practical challenges, such as managing project budgets and dealing with the unpredictable weather conditions that affect crop yields.
The group shared their experiences, emphasizing the lessons learned about perseverance, soft skills, and managing frustrations. They highlighted how essential it is to stick to budget no matter the constraints while maintaining the desired project outcomes. Additionally, the team noted the need to manage expectations and adapt to onsite challenges, such as plumbing and construction hurdles.
After the project presentations, a lively discussion unfolded about potential improvements and sustainability strategies. The students shared insights on the work they had done, emphasizing the steps already taken to address these issues.
About sustainability, the irrigation team explained that they provided detailed manuals and training videos, designed to help the local team maintain the system seamlessly. The water purification team already had a committee of staff and students in place for the maintenance of the project. The team members were encouraged to include the university top management members in the committee set up to ensure sustainability, integrate mobile money payment options for water purchases, have a clear agreement set up for the project to be in use and to plan for scale up to other facilities like the Town campus and the Regional Referral Hospital.
Prof. Deogratius Bitariho shared insights into the ongoing farming activities at his farm, including a 10-acre coffee plantation, part of which is already irrigated. He expressed gratitude to the Humasol and MUST teams for setting up a water irrigation system and water reservoir tank on his farm, which is expected to reduce costs related to feeding livestock and improving crop yields. He emphasized the importance of sustainable practices and innovation in agriculture, particularly the use of organic fertilizers currently being evaluated.
The university Engineer, Patrick Mujunansi, echoed support for the drinking water project. He drew comparisons with water dispensing systems in European Countries like Italy and Portugal, expressing optimism about the potential for similar systems to succeed at MUST. He pledged the support of the university estates department to ensure the project’s continued success, particularly by connecting the water system to university power sources if needed.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Johnes Obungoloch, Dean Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology and team leader of Sub – Project three of the UCoBs project, commended the students and teams for their hard work and dedication. He shared insights from his own visits to local farms, observing that sustainable irrigation systems are crucial for modern farming. Dr. Obungoloch reminded the participants that farming requires resilience and innovation, especially in light of changing weather patterns. He expressed confidence that the collaboration between MUST, UCoBS, and Humasol would yield long-lasting benefits for both the university and the wider community. Additionally, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Dr. Dennis Bbosa, thanked the UCoBS team and Belgian partners for their collaboration. Quoting Nelson Mandela, he said, “It always seems impossible until it’s done,” and praised the teams for successfully bringing clean drinking water to Kihumuro and implementing irrigation at Prof. Bitariho’s farm.
Other staff who participated were Mr. John Ziine Lecturer in FAST and Ms. Sheila Niinye Twinamatsiko, the Communications Officer in charge of International Relations. Other team members were Dr. Imelda Kemeza, Ms. Nuriat Nambogo of CAMTech, Mr. Mayanja Bob Williams, and students from FAST.
The presentations ended with a renewed commitment to continuing such impactful projects, empowering students with hands-on experience in sustainable solutions, and strengthening partnerships that drive innovation at MUST.
