With funding from Just a Drop (JAD), Voluntary Action for Development (VAD) introduced an innovative Income Generating Loan (IGL) strategy to ensure the long-term sustainability of boreholes in Kapelebyong District. This approach not only increases access to clean, safe, and sustainable water sources, but also empowers local communities economically.
The concept was first piloted in 2020 with the Aturai Water User Committee. The strategy combines capacity buildingwith financial empowerment:
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VAD trains members of 20 Water User Committees on loan acquisition and management.
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Each member receives a loan worth UGX 200,000, meaning a group of 20 members can access UGX 4,000,000 in total.
These loans are invested in members’ existing businesses or projects, helping them generate income and make profits. Importantly, part of these profits is set aside for water source maintenance, ensuring the boreholes remain functional for years to come.
The results have been promising. For instance, Aturai Water User Committee now boasts a loan portfolio of UGX 4,770,000, enabling both community growth and sustainable water access. Due to its success, this model has now been expanded to six other Income Generating Loan groups across the district.
This initiative demonstrates how linking water resource management with economic empowerment can create lasting change.