RAIN WATER TANKS FOR UGANDA

In Isingiro, one of Uganda’s most impoverished districts, an urgent water crisis is wreaking havoc on communities. A staggering 79% of households lack access to clean water, while the majority of the population survives on less than USD 1.25 a day. Droughts, poor infrastructure, and extreme poverty force women and children to trek 3–8 kilometres daily in search of water—often unsafe and contaminated. This crisis fuels the spread of deadly waterborne diseases like typhoid, diarrhoea, and dehydration, which are tragically among the leading causes of death for children under five.

The region’s underground water sources are plagued by high mineral content, making them unsafe for both people and animals. An alarming 75% of boreholes yield water that is too salty or too hard to drink, while protected wells and springs remain out of reach for most. As a result, communities are forced to rely on unprotected sources like rock catchments, which become dangerously contaminated during rainfall.

The lack of clean water not only poses a serious public health risk but also deprives children—particularly girls—of their education. These girls are often kept home to fetch water, a physically exhausting and time-consuming task carried out in unsafe conditions, leaving them vulnerable to abuse. This not only limits their future opportunities but also reduces women’s productivity, ultimately hindering community development. The need for change is urgent, and the consequences are far-reaching.

How a Rainwater Tank Transforms Lives:

1. Supports Education & Safety
   Children, especially girls, spend less time walking long distances for water and more time learning—improving safety and school outcomes.

2. Promotes Self-Reliance
   Families gain greater independence by managing their own water supply.

3. Improves Health & Hygiene
   Access to safe water reduces illness and supports better sanitation.

4. Builds Climate Resilience
   Harvesting rainwater is a sustainable solution that strengthens communities and safeguards ecosystems.

5. Reduces Poverty
   With water nearby, families can grow food, earn income, and build a better future.

This is more than just water—it’s opportunity, empowerment, and lasting hope.

In New Zealand, turning on a tap is effortless—but in Isingiro, Uganda, access to clean water is a daily struggle. For many families, this basic human right is out of reach. The ‘Rainwater Tanks for Uganda’ project offers a practical, affordable, and sustainable way to change that.

We support this project because we believe that good design isn’t just about buildings—it’s about people. This partnership reflects our values: empowering communities, supporting practical solutions, and creating lasting impact. One tank at a time, we’re helping families thrive.

Building Clean Water, Together
Community is at the heart of the Rainwater Tanks for Uganda project. Skilled local masons team up with families and neighbours to construct each tank using high-quality materials sourced nearby. Incredibly, many materials—like sand, cement, and welded mesh—are carried by hand from feeder roads over 500 metres away, showing the community’s remarkable commitment and cooperation.

How It Works
Rainwater is collected from rooftops through gutter systems and stored in reinforced concrete tanks. This simple, effective solution provides families with clean, safe water all year round—dramatically reducing the risk of waterborne illness.

Fast to Build
Once materials are on-site, each tank takes just seven days to complete. That means families quickly gain access to water—transforming daily life in a matter of days.

Made to Last
Built from reinforced concrete, these tanks are designed for long-term use. They’re durable, low-maintenance, and built to serve families for years to come.

Our partnership with the Centre for Community Solidarity (CCS) is grounded in a shared commitment to sustainable development and creating meaningful change. Lorraine Borrmeister has had the privilege of working closely with Charles Rwabambari, CCS’s Project Coordinator, during her time as an International Programmes Officer with a Christchurch-based NGO. This strong foundation of collaboration is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a Funding Agreement, ensuring transparency, mutual accountability, and a clear path toward success. Together, we are making real, lasting strides to improve the lives of those who need it most.

• Total Cost per 10m3 Tank: NZD980.00 (approximately UGX2,145,142)

• Borrmeister Architects Contribution: NZD490.00 (approximately UGX1,072,571)

• Ugandan Family Contribution: NZD490.00 (approximately UGX1,072,571)

  Note: Uganda, UGX (Ugandan Shillings) is the go-to currency for transactions. If your NZ bank can transfer UGX, that's awesome! But since not all NZ banks deal with UGX, we’ve found using the 'Wise' app to be much easier for sending money.

  While USD is also accepted, keep in mind that exchange rates and Ugandan bank fees can be pretty high, so UGX tends to be the more reliable and cost-effective choice for payments.

  Additionally, Lorraine and the team at Borrmeister Architects are always happy to lend a hand if you need any assistance. We don't charge for our services; this initiative is all about giving back and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

This isn’t a fundraiser, and we’re not collecting money for others. Instead, we’re inviting you to directly support a family in Uganda by helping them build a rainwater tank.

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Support a family: Contribute towards the cost of a rainwater tank. Each family covers half the cost.

• Choose how to contribute: You can transfer the funds directly, or if you’d like a hand, just reach out and we’ll guide you through the process.

• Spread the word: Share the cause with your network—whether it’s on your website, social media, or by inviting others to join in. We’ll provide all the details and support you need.

Every contribution is tied to a specific family, and we’ve set up clear agreements to ensure transparency. CCS will provide updates on the project, including photos and stories from the family you’re supporting.

Have any questions or need help? We’re here for you! Reach out anytime.

This is a direct act of kindness—no middleman, just real impact.

Stay tuned for regular updates on the ‘Rainwater Tank for Uganda’ project and see the impact unfold! Follow our journey with CCS, Tobista Tibenderana, her family, and the Isingiro community as we document their progress and share their inspiring stories.