Rainwater Harvest for 500 Pupils in Sembabule.

We are pleased to share an update on the Rainwater Harvesting Project at Curtin Child Learning Centre (CLICCS) Uganda. Thanks to the generosity and support of our partners and well-wishers, significant progress has been made toward improving access to safe and reliable water for our school community.
The project was initiated to address the persistent challenge of water scarcity, especially during the dry seasons when children and staff had to walk long distances to collect water or purchase it at high cost. Limited access to clean water affected hygiene, sanitation, meal preparation, and the overall learning environment.
During this reporting period, the construction of the rainwater harvesting system has advanced well. Roof guttering has been installed on the main classroom block, allowing rainwater to be efficiently collected and directed into storage tanks. The installation of high-capacity water storage tanks is nearing completion, with supporting concrete foundations already finished. The plumbing network connecting the gutters to the storage tanks has also been completed, ensuring efficient water collection during rainfall.
Once fully operational, the system will provide thousands of litres of clean rainwater for drinking after appropriate treatment, handwashing, cleaning classrooms, cooking meals, and maintaining school sanitation facilities. This will significantly reduce dependence on costly purchased water and improve the health and wellbeing of over 300 learners and 15 staff members.
The project has already created positive awareness within the school and surrounding community about water conservation and environmental stewardship. Learners have participated in practical lessons on the importance of harvesting rainwater, protecting water sources, and maintaining good hygiene practices. These activities are helping to build lifelong habits that contribute to healthier communities.
Although good progress has been achieved, a few activities remain before the project is fully completed. These include the installation of first-flush filtration devices, completion of protective fencing around the water tanks, and training of staff and learners on system operation and routine maintenance. We expect these final activities to be completed soon, enabling the system to operate at full capacity before the next major rainy season.
We remain grateful to our supporters whose generosity has made this project possible. Your investment is creating lasting change by ensuring that children have access to safe water in a learning environment that promotes health, dignity, and academic success. Reduced expenditure on purchased water will also allow more school resources to be directed toward educational materials and learner support.
Looking ahead, CLICCS Uganda is committed to maintaining the rainwater harvesting system through regular inspections, cleaning of gutters and tanks, and establishing a maintenance fund supported by the school community. This will ensure the long-term sustainability and continued impact of the project.
On behalf of the children, staff, and families of Curtin Child Learning Centre, we sincerely thank you for your partnership and continued commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable children in Uganda. Together, we are building a healthier, safer, and more sustainable future.