By Emong Vicent
Kumi Municipality Member of Parliament (MP) aspirant Simon Peter Omalinga has won public praise after spearheading the rehabilitation of over 50 boreholes across the municipality, in a move aimed at improving access to clean and safe water.
Omalinga, who is making his third bid for the Kumi Municipality MP seat, has invested more than UGX 50 million of his personal resources into the project.
His efforts include the rehabilitation of existing boreholes and the drilling of a brand new borehole in Otipe, all aimed at addressing the perennial water crisis in the area.
Speaking to journalists shortly after picking nomination forms for the forthcoming National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries, Omalinga said his passion for community service, especially in the water sector, is what continues to drive his political ambition.
“I have sacrificed all I have into borehole rehabilitation because water is life,” Omalinga stated.
“Many leaders shy from such costly undertakings, but for me, it is about improving lives and protecting communities from waterborne diseases.”
Omalinga explained that while borehole rehabilitation is an expensive venture, it remains a crucial lifeline for thousands of residents who have for long endured walking long distances to fetch water, often from unsafe sources.
He emphasized that access to clean water is not only essential for domestic use but also critical for agriculture, which remains the backbone of livelihoods in Kumi Municipality.
In addition to the ongoing water project, Omalinga pledged to support local communities with water wells and assist in converting traditional water points into functional boreholes. He noted that such initiatives will help improve hygiene, health, and food security.
“My goal is not just to drill boreholes but to work with communities to ensure that every household has access to safe water. Water is a right, not a privilege,” Omalinga added.
Omalinga also unveiled plans to advocate for the extension of piped water across all wards if elected to Parliament in 2026.
He revealed intentions to establish a vocational training institute in the area where youth and women will be equipped with free hands-on skills to support job creation and reduce unemployment.
Residents of Kumi Municipality have welcomed Omalinga’s efforts, describing him as a committed and development-oriented leader.
They praised his borehole rehabilitation initiative, particularly in schools and densely populated communities, saying it has brought immediate relief to their daily water struggles.
“We used to suffer a lot. Some of the boreholes had broken down for years, and no one cared. But now, thanks to Omalinga, we have clean water again,” said Janet Auma, a resident of Kanyum ward. “Our children no longer fall sick from dirty water. We are grateful.”
Another resident, James Odeke of Northern Division, lauded Omalinga’s initiative as a rare gesture of leadership.
“He has done more as an aspirant than some people do in office. We can only imagine what more he can deliver if given the mandate in 2026,” Odeke said.
The borehole rehabilitation has also been credited with reducing cases of typhoid and diarrhea, diseases previously linked to consumption of contaminated water.
Health workers in the municipality have reported a decline in such cases, thanks to improved water access.
Omalinga is positioning himself as a practical and people-centered leader.
He has urged party members and the wider electorate to rally behind his bid so he can continue serving Kumi Municipality from a more influential position.
“I am ready to lead with action, not just promises. The rehabilitation of boreholes is just the beginning. Let us work together to transform Kumi Municipality,” he appealed.
About Author
I, particularly drilled a production borehole for pipe water system in Atiida village, Otipe Ward spearheaded by Omalinga Simon Peter. He’s a true leader ready to serve his people.