By Mike Rwothomio

The leadership of Noor Mosque in Paidha Town Council, under the Zombo Muslim District, has officially commissioned a modern drainable toilet facility valued at UGX 37 million.

The commissioning ceremony took place on Friday March 13, 2026 at the mosque premises in Ovuru Yindi cell.

Construction of the facility began in 2023 and was fully funded through generous contributions from Muslim faithful, members of other religious denominations, and the business community across Zombo, Nebbi, Koboko, and surrounding areas.

Hajji Saidi Ocaki, Chairperson of Noor Mosque, expressed deep appreciation to all contributors who made the project possible since its launch in 2023.

Yahaya Bhakit, Chairperson of Works at the mosque, highlighted the facility's revenue-generating potential, stating it "will also generate revenue for the mosque's ongoing needs." 

He added that the income would support operational and developmental requirements, reducing dependence on donations while improving hygiene standards.

Ocaya Sebbi Muhamad, a key mosque stakeholder, pledged continued support from the Muslim community for initiatives by other religious denominations, in recognition of the assistance they have previously provided.

Established in 2000, Noor Mosque now serves thousands of worshippers from Paidha and nearby areas. 

The new drainable toilet, featuring a pour-flush mechanism connected to a septic tank, aligns with Islamic principles of cleanliness by ensuring proper waste management, minimizing odors, contamination, and health risks.

The facility will enhance convenience for congregants during daily prayers, Friday Jumu'ah, Eid celebrations, and other gatherings, making ablution and personal hygiene easier and more comfortable.

This project comes amid a broader push by local authorities in Paidha Town Council and Zombo District to shift toward drainable latrines over traditional pit latrines.

Officials cite severe land constraints, particularly in schools and public institutions, where repeated pit excavations consume valuable space needed for expansion.

LCIII Chairperson Innocent Godfred Onega noted that land previously available for institutions has become increasingly limited due to frequent pit digging.

William Okello, Secretary for Works and Transport in Paidha Town Council, encouraged school administrators to adopt similar drainable systems, pointing to examples where such facilities conserve land by allowing periodic emptying without new excavations.

Muslim faithfuls gathered at the site during commissioning of the facility.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub