Saha Global, a community-based NGO, has commenced a dugout expansion project in Yakura, a community in the North-East Gonja District of the Savannah Region. The initiative, funded by the Shockwave Foundation, aims to tackle persistent water shortages that have long plagued residents.
Upon completion, the project is expected to provide sustainable water access to communities affected by seasonal droughts, including Yekura, Jantongwulanyili, and Fushila.
Ensuring Reliable Water Supply
At a sod-cutting ceremony marking the start of the project, Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Be-Awuribe, underscored the urgency of expanding the dugout to ensure a consistent and reliable water supply.
“We are aware that the current dugout does not have sufficient capacity to sustain residents throughout the dry season. This expansion will not only deepen and widen the dugout but also reinforce its embankments to improve access during the rainy season,” he stated.
The minister commended Saha Global for its dedication to improving access to clean water, adding that while the project is not government-led, it has received full support from local authorities.
Impact of the 700,000 Cedis Project
Francis Blessing Gbandan, Government and Stakeholder Relations Manager at Saha Global, highlighted the impact the 700,000 cedis project would have on Yakura and surrounding communities. He noted that the existing dugout dries up between January and June each year, forcing residents—especially women and children—to walk long distances to communities such as Datoyili to buy water.
“This challenge places a significant burden on residents, particularly women and children, who spend valuable time searching for water instead of engaging in productive activities,” Mr. Gbandan explained.
He reaffirmed that the dugout expansion in Yakura is a major step toward improving water access and enhancing resilience against seasonal water shortages.
“The expansion will ensure a year-round supply of clean, safe, and sufficient water for all,” he added.
Local Government and Community Support
Acting Coordinating Director for the North-East Gonja District Assembly, Issah Imoro, acknowledged the severe water crisis in Yakura and expressed appreciation for Saha Global’s intervention.
“The water crisis has been a major concern for residents of Yakura, and this initiative will bring much-needed relief,” he noted.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving water access, he admitted that logistical challenges make it difficult to extend pipe-borne water to widely dispersed communities. He emphasized the importance of external support in bridging the gap in water provision.
Community Gratitude
On behalf of the Yakura community, the chief expressed gratitude to Saha Global for their intervention.
“We are happy that Saha Global has come to save us from this struggle. Their support will go a long way to ease the burden on our women, who walk long distances in search of water,” he stated.
Access to clean and safe water remains a fundamental human right. As initiatives like this take shape, communities like Yakura can look forward to a future with improved water security and better living conditions.
Source : Lilian Walter/Zaaghana.com
