Assessing the Sources of Water Pollution and Mitigation Measures in Uganda: A Case of Bwaise III Parish

Abstract

The study assessed the sources of water sources pollution and mitigation measures in Bwaise III parish. The objectives of the study were; to characterise houses and water resources in Bwaise III Parish, to examine the causes of water pollution in Bwaise III Parish and to assess the mitigations strategies of overcoming water pollutions in Bwaise III Parish. The study used a cross sectional research design. Data was collected through observation, questionnaire survey and key informant interview guide. The study found that the dominant type of housing were semi-permanent houses. Most houses were confined and not properly planned. The major sources of household income came from handicraft/services. The major sources of water used by the household were taps. Household distance to water sources averagely were less than 1km suggesting that water sources could easily be accessed by most houses in short time possible. Additionally, the study revealed that the main source of water pollution to their water sources were garbage. The other source of water pollution in the study area was water run-off. Majority of the respondents were not satisfied with the quality of their drinking water. Furthermore, Majority of the residents in Bwaise used water conservation to reduce on water pollution, this was followed by those who used storm water management, and using minimum amount of detergent. The study recommend that household water should be treated properly so that they become environmentally safe. Adequate care should be taken to ensure that effective sewage treatment process is in place and that contaminated water does not get mixed with the environment.