LIRA CITY – October 9, 2025 – Residents of Elwa Cell in Barapwo are finally tasting clean, safe water after weeks of relying on a contaminated well that burst along the road, a situation that posed serious health risks.
The long-awaited relief came on Thursday when a team dispatched by the Minister for Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, arrived to repair the community's broken borehole. The intervention ended a period of hardship where locals had no choice but to consume dirty water for their daily needs.
Representing the Minister, Dr. Nicholas Okunu addressed the gathered residents, acknowledging the severity of the situation. "The borehole spoilage had made people drink dirty water, which is a danger to public health," Dr. Okunu stated. "We have now worked on it because clean water is good for health. This is the kind of work Dr. Aceng is committed to doing for the people."
The event, however, quickly took on a political tone, with Dr. Okunu and local leaders using the occasion to rally support for the Health Minister's continued leadership. Dr. Okunu praised Dr. Aceng's track record, saying, "The work that Dr. Aceng has done for the people of Lira City and Lango is great. She needs to be given another term to continue this development."
The sentiment was echoed by local officials and residents alike. Bonny Oguma, the Secretary for NRM Publicity in Anai Ward, explicitly called on the community to reward the Minister with their votes. "There are so many seen developments brought by Dr. Jane, and she needs to continue her leadership," Aguma asserted.
The support appeared to cross party lines. Jaspher Okello, a resident, declared his backing despite his own political affiliation. "I will give my vote to Dr. Jane, much as I am UPC," Okello said, highlighting the personal impact of the development project.
Elder Dickson Okuja offered his blessings, saying, "We bless Dr. Aceng to continue with the good work she is doing for our community." Miller Olila Bosco added, "We will continue supporting Dr. Aceng."
Second Borehole Repaired in Anai Ward
On the same day, the team also repaired a single, crucial borehole in Anai Ober Cell. This water source serves a large population, including people from Anai Agali, Anai Okii, and Anai Ober in Anai Ward, for all their domestic uses.
The arrival of Dr. Okunu and the repair team in Anai Ober was met with visible joy and celebration, marking a significant step towards improving public health and sanitation for the two communities. The repairs have not only quenched a physical thirst but have also stirred the political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections.
