By Spy Uganda
The Water Engineer of Mbale District, Eng. Wandera Simon Peter, was this week arrested and detained at Mbale Central Police Station over allegations of mismanagement of the Shs2.2 billion Buyobo–Bubyangu Gravity Flow Scheme.
According to the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, the arrest follows ongoing investigations under case reference GEF: 09/2026 into the implementation of the government-funded water project.
The Buyobo–Bubyangu Gravity Flow Scheme was established to provide clean and safe piped water sourced from the Elgon Mountains to rural communities in Mbale District.
However, Minister Barugahara revealed that despite the significant government investment, several connected public water points are currently non-functional, leaving communities without access to the expected water supply.
He said the government will not tolerate poor workmanship, mismanagement or projects that fail to deliver value to citizens.
“Government projects must meet the required standards and deliver real value to Ugandans,” Barugahara said.
The Minister warned contractors and officials involved in public projects to ensure quality implementation, noting that those responsible for failure or misuse of public resources will be held accountable.
The arrest comes amid increased government efforts to strengthen accountability in the management of public funds and ensure that development projects achieve their intended objectives.
