By Alfred Opio
Residents of Kisoko B Village in Nabitende Parish, Kasodo Sub-county in Pallisa District have raised concerns over the quality of water from a government-installed borehole, saying it is causing tooth discoloration among children and young people.
The borehole, drilled several years ago under the Rural Water and Sanitation Programme (RUWASA), was intended to provide safe and clean water to the community. However, residents now claim the water is negatively affecting the dental health of those who use it regularly for drinking and brushing.
According to locals, children and youth below the age of 20 have developed yellow-stained teeth after prolonged use of the borehole water, raising fears about possible mineral contamination.
Stella Atim, the Female District Councilor for Kasodo Sub-county, said she has repeatedly petitioned district authorities to intervene, but the matter remains unresolved.
“I have reported this issue several times to the district leadership, but there has been no positive response,” Atim said. “I even pushed for funds to be allocated in the district budget, but the request has always been sidelined during approvals.”
She noted that beyond the health concerns, the situation has also affected the self-esteem of many young people in the area.
“This is affecting the confidence of our youth. Some of them fear smiling or interacting freely in public because they feel embarrassed about the color of their teeth,” she added.
Atim warned that if the district fails to act, the community may consider legal action to compel authorities to address the problem.
One of the affected residents, 19-year-old Sam Okileng, described the impact of the water as gradual but noticeable.
“The water does not cause pain, but over time it makes the teeth yellow and gives them an unpleasant smell,” Okileng explained. “Sometimes I avoid socializing because of that.”
In response, Pallisa District Planner Robert Mukeso acknowledged the complaints and assured residents that steps are being taken to resolve the issue.
“Our office is aware of the situation. We plan to decommission the current borehole and install a new one,” Mukeso said. “We ask the community to remain calm as the matter will be addressed within this financial year.”
Health experts note that excessive minerals such as fluoride or iron in water can contribute to tooth staining, underscoring the importance of regular water quality testing.
Residents are now hopeful that the district leadership will act swiftly to provide a safer water source and restore confidence among affected families.
