Access to potable water remains a significant challenge in northern Ghana, particularly in the Kalande community of the Salaga South municipality of the Savannah region.
Residents are urging benevolent organizations and companies to assist in providing additional boreholes to ease the burden of water collection, which disproportionately affects women and children.
During the commissioning of a mechanic borehole by the KGL Foundation to the community, the chief, Nana Apempamade II, expressed gratitude and called on other benevolent individuals and organisations to emulate same to reduce the water challenge confronting his community.
“We are grateful for the support from KGL for providing us with one mechanic borehole, but it is not enough. We need more boreholes to serve our community,” he called.
His words reflect the overwhelming sentiment of the community, which numbers around five thousand residents.
On his part, the assemblyman for the Kolande, Charles Imoro, recounted the hustle the women in the community undergo to fetch water, especially during the lean seasons, calling for more boreholes to alleviate the water challenge confronting the community.
“Our women travel long kilometers before they can get water, especially during this dry season. One mechanic borehole is simply not enough for our needs,” he indicated.
His concern highlights the reality that many women face daily, often sacrificing time and energy for something as essential as water.
Yaa Kadah, speaking on behalf of the women, shared their struggles: “Every day, we endure long walks to fetch water. It is exhausting and takes away precious time that we could spend on our families or work.” Her words resonate deeply, illustrating the physical and emotional toll of their daily quest for water.
Nii Ankonu Annorbah-Sarpei, Programmes Manager of KGL Foundation, revealed at the commissioning of the borehole that the rationale is to provide water to underserved and deprived communities in the northern sector of Ghana.
He also said the initiative is aimed to address and contribute to Ghana’s achievement of its SDGs, particularly those related to water, stating that, 9 communities have the mechanised water system functional.
“We are committed to supporting communities with water challenges to help curb the water crisis in our country.” His promise brings a glimmer of hope to the residents who are eager for more assistance.
In response to the community’s needs, the chief of Kalande, Nana Apempamade II urged, “I encourage all of you to use the water as expected. We must take care of this resource for ourselves and for future generations.”
The collective hope of the Kalande community is clear with more boreholes, they can reduce the stress and long distances that define their daily struggle for water, ultimately improving their quality of life.
By Solomon Kwame Solomon
