Nabdam: The Catholic Relief Services (CRS), in partnership with Water Access Now (WAN), has inaugurated a new borehole at Sakoti Junior High School in the Nabdam District. This marks the 300th water system installed by the two organizations since 2007, aimed at addressing water scarcity in underserved communities across Northern Ghana.
According to Ghana News Agency, the project is part of the Improving Water Access in Northern Ghana (IWANG) initiative, funded by WAN and executed by CRS. Over the past 18 years, this initiative has seen more than $3 million invested in water systems, benefiting over 200,000 people in 26 districts.
Dr. Francis Gumah, Head of Programming at CRS Ghana, emphasized the significance of the event, noting that the borehole symbolizes the enduring partnership with WAN. He highlighted the pressing issue of safe drinking water access in Ghana, where only 44.3 percent of the population benefits from improved water services. The situation is particularly dire in northern regions, exacerbated by poverty and inequality.
WAN's Board Chairman, Mr. Bob Maher, expressed pride in the collaborative efforts with CRS. He acknowledged the communal participation that has been integral to the project's success, reinforcing WAN's commitment to the cause.
Nabdam District Chief Executive, Mr. Francis Yenwoma Tobig, lauded the initiative as transformative, recalling his own experiences at the school. He announced plans by the District Assembly to construct over 30 boreholes to further enhance water access.
Mr. Alfred Ayambila Akadomah, Headteacher of Sakoti JHS, noted the new borehole will mitigate the risks students face while seeking water and improve educational outcomes. Nab Dagivo Bugre, the Chief of Kugri, extended gratitude to CRS and WAN, underscoring the borehole's importance as a fundamental necessity.
The IWANG project is implemented alongside the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Education Service, and various local assemblies, demonstrating a holistic approach to fostering inclusive development.
