By: Our reporter

Authorities in Zombo District are investigating circumstances under which a man in Akaa Sub-county allegedly took control of a community borehole, leaving hundreds of residents paying for access to what was intended to be a free source of safe water.

The man, whose identity had not been established by press time, is reportedly charging community members to collect water from the borehole. It remains unclear who authorised the charges or how the money collected from residents is being managed.

The matter was raised by Zombo District councillors during discussions on recommendations from the Committee of Works and Technical Services on the district’s Fourth Quarter Performance Report for the 2025/2026 financial year.

Committee Chairperson Richard Kumakech called for an immediate investigation by the District Water Engineer to establish how the individual gained control of the facility and whether the collection of user fees is authorised.

Kumakech said the investigation should also establish the ownership and management arrangements of the borehole and ensure that residents can access safe water without being subjected to unauthorised charges.

Zombo District LC5 Chairperson James Oruna Uyullu described the alleged collection of money from residents as an act of extortion and urged local leaders to take immediate action.

The controversy comes amid concerns over access to reliable and affordable water in rural communities, where public boreholes are an important source of safe water for households.