Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-12 09:12:42
Biacici Village, located in Ayaa Parish, Arua District, is a remote area that offers a glimpse into a way of life characterized by vast lands, sparse settlements, and a once-forested landscape now transformed by animal rearing and charcoal burning.
The journey from Arua Town to Biacici Village may take you through winding roads and dusty paths, with the option of a one-and-a-half-hour motorcycle ride providing a more immersive experience compared to the sudden transition that occurs when traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle. The village itself is a testament to the harsh realities of rural living, with temperatures soaring to 37 degrees Celsius by 9 am, setting the stage for a challenging environment.
The main economic activities in Biacici Village revolve around animal rearing and charcoal burning, which have inevitably led to the depletion of trees in the area. The once-forested landscape now bears the scars of deforestation, with sparse trees dotting the vast lands that stretch towards the horizon.
Water scarcity is a pressing issue in Biacici Village, as residents like Ms Foska Letasi recount the challenges they face in accessing clean and safe water for daily use. A borehole drilled in the area provided a lifeline for the community, offering a source of water that was previously inaccessible. The nearest water point in Etia Village, 3 km away, posed significant risks as it was shared with animals, leaving residents vulnerable to waterborne diseases.
The scarcity of water has created domestic tensions within the village, with concerns about infidelity arising as women like Ms Letasi and Ms Janet Anderu venture out to fetch water from distant sources. The daily struggle to secure water, especially during dry seasons, highlights the precarious balance between survival and vulnerability in this harsh environment.
Efforts to address the water crisis in Biacici Village have been ongoing, with the Ministry of Water and Environment initiating a project to construct a valley tank worth Shs350m to provide a sustainable water supply for the community. Local leaders, such as Ajia Sub-county Chairman Mr Jacob Anguajibi, acknowledge the impact of water scarcity on both humans and animals, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to safeguard livelihoods.
Mr Kato Kayizi, a commissioner for water for production in the ministry, underscores the importance of community participation in safeguarding water resources and utilizing them for agricultural production and environmental conservation. Arua’s Deputy Resident District Commissioner Denis Okwaimungu echoes the call for sustainable practices, advocating for irrigation schemes and tree planting initiatives to restore the lost vegetation and mitigate the effects of deforestation on the local ecosystem.
In conclusion, Biacici Village stands as a microcosm of the challenges faced by rural communities in accessing essential resources like water and adapting to changing environmental conditions. By leveraging community participation, sustainable development practices, and government support, the residents of Biacici Village can strive towards a more resilient and prosperous future for themselves and future generations.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
