RSI and Butebo District Local Government Convene Strategic Meeting to Strengthen Sanitation Standards and Resume Community Activities

Ruta Serenity Initiative (RSI), in collaboration with Butebo District Local Government, convened a high-level stakeholder meeting aimed at advancing sustainable sanitation improvements and supporting the resumption of community activities following disruptions caused by the recent election period. The meeting brought together key district local government officials, technical staff, and development partners to reflect on current sanitation challenges and agree on practical pathways for progress.

The engagement provided a platform for open dialogue on the state of sanitation in Butebo District, with particular focus on low coverage of improved household latrines, limited adoption of durable sanitation technologies, and the need for stronger coordination between public, private, and community actors. District officials emphasized the importance of restarting community-led sanitation activities, many of which had slowed down during the election season.

Speaking during the meeting, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Butebo District commended the partnership with RSI and called for renewed momentum in sanitation programming.

“As a district, we recognize that sanitation is a shared responsibility. Following the election period, we must work together to reactivate community structures and ensure that households resume efforts toward improved sanitation and hygiene standards,” the CAO noted.

RSI presented its approach to sanitation programming, emphasizing market-based sanitation solutions, behavior change, and strong collaboration with local government structures to ensure sustainability. The organization highlighted the need to rebuild community engagement, strengthen sanitation supply chains, and support local artisans to deliver durable and affordable latrine options.

Peter Nuwagaba, Executive Director of Ruta Serenity Initiative, reaffirmed RSI’s commitment to working alongside district leadership and communities.

“This meeting marks an important step toward restoring community momentum after the election period. By combining local government leadership, private sector innovation, and community participation, we can accelerate progress toward safe, dignified sanitation for all households in Butebo,” he said.

The meeting was also attended by partners from SATO, a sanitation solutions provider offering affordable and durable products designed to improve latrine standards. SATO showcased technologies that address common challenges such as odor control, durability, and user safety. Their participation sparked productive discussions on integrating private sector solutions into district-led sanitation efforts and promoting higher-quality household latrines.

Participants collectively agreed on key action points, including strengthening community sensitization, supporting the resumption of village-level sanitation activities, promoting improved sanitation products, and reinforcing coordination between district departments, civil society, and private sector actors. There was also consensus on the need to align upcoming interventions with district sanitation plans to ensure long-term sustainability and measurable impact.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment by Butebo District Local Government, RSI, and partners such as SATO to continue working together toward a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient district. As community activities resume, stakeholders expressed optimism that strengthened collaboration and renewed community engagement will accelerate progress toward improved sanitation standards across Butebo.

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