History was made at Nabumali High School in Mbale District as the Ministry of Water and Environment officially commissioned a long-awaited water project, bringing lasting relief to students, staff, and the surrounding community that had endured years of water shortages.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the school’s basketball courts, attracted government officials, school leaders, alumni, community members, and development partners who gathered to celebrate what many described as a transformative milestone for the historic institution.
The event opened with a powerful prayer led by Archbishop Amos Wafula of Nabumali, who reminded the gathering that great achievements are built on courage, commitment, and faith. Reflecting on the perseverance of the prophet Jeremiah in the Bible, he urged leaders and stakeholders to remain faithful in their service to the community.
Quoting Philippians 1:6, he emphasized that every development journey should begin with prayer and trust in God.
“We prayed for this project from the beginning, and today we witness its fulfillment. May the Lord continue guiding and strengthening those who dedicate their efforts to improving our communities,” he said.
Representing the district’s water sector, Simon Peter Wandera, the District Water Supply Officer for Mbale, praised the government’s commitment to expanding access to clean water in schools and communities. He noted that reliable water supply is essential not only for learning but also for sanitation, health, and dignity.
The Headmistress of Nabumali High School, popularly known as Madam Nabude Margret, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the government, the Ministry of Water and Environment, the school’s Old Boys, and the contractors for delivering the long-awaited project.
She described the commissioning as a turning point for the school and pledged responsible management of the facility.
“This project has come at the right time. We are grateful to the government and all partners who made it possible. As a school, we pledge to ensure the system benefits not only our students but also the surrounding community through proper channels,” she said.
The contractor, Nexus Green, commended the school administration for their exceptional cooperation throughout the project, noting that such collaboration enabled the team to complete the work in less than six months.
The company’s manager also urged the government to continue entrusting them with community-focused projects, emphasizing that their priority is always to deliver quality work that benefits the people first.
She further revealed that the company is preparing to commission another irrigation project in Mbale City early next week, expanding efforts to improve water access in the region.
An emotional highlight of the event came from one of the school’s Old Boys known as Waswa Matovu Collines, who reflected on the institution’s earlier years when it was known as Nabumali Bulaya. He recalled a time when the school enjoyed modern flush toilets but later reverted to pit latrines due to water shortages.
With the new water system now in place, he expressed hope that the school would reclaim those standards.
“This project restores dignity to the school. Water will not only help students but also support the surrounding community. If properly maintained, this system can serve generations for over 100 years,” he said.
He also encouraged the school administration to extend water supply to dormitories and reinstate flush toilets, ensuring improved hygiene and comfort for students.
The Resident District Commissioner of Mbale District, Stanley Bayole, applauded the patience and cooperation of the school community throughout the project’s journey. He commended the Ministry of Water and Environment and the contractors for their professionalism and commitment.
He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the facility through proper maintenance and accountability.
“Government projects belong to the people. It is important that this water system is protected and maintained so it continues serving students and the community for many years,” he said.
The RDC also encouraged the school leadership to maintain close collaboration with his office whenever support is needed, reaffirming the government’s dedication to serving the public wholeheartedly.
As clean water begins to flow across the school compound, the project stands as a powerful symbol of progress, cooperation, and hope. For the students of Nabumali High School and the wider community of Mbale District, the commissioning marks not just the completion of a project—but the beginning of a brighter, healthier future.
