Residents of the Donfah Community in Yellequelleh Administrative District have a reason to celebrate as the United Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with the government of Liberia officially commission a modern solar-powered water facility valued at $83,711.82.
The facility, which serves more than 2,000 residents, promises to provide safe and clean drinking water, addressing longstanding health issues related to waterborne diseases caused by reliance on contaminated sources.
The official commissioning ceremony, held on December 20, 2024, and it was well attended by government officials from the WASH, chiefs and elders, youth groups including women and children. This significant achievement with the inauguration the water facility brings total relief to the people in the area.
UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Programme Louis Kuukpen, urged inhabitants to use the water facility and promote reconciliation. He further emphasized the transformative impact of the facility. “This is not just about water; it’s about creating livelihood opportunities and fostering reconciliation within the community,” Kuukpen stated.
Mr. Kuukpen told scores of residents in Donfah, that each kiosk associated with the water facility and this, will have business service windows, enabling women entrepreneurs to establish small businesses. The UNDP has also provided startup cash for two women to manage these kiosks.
The modern infrastructure features a solar-powered system that ensures a reliable supply of clean water and includes a chlorination unit for purification. This advancement is expected to reduce the vulnerabilities faced by women and children who previously traveled long distances for water, exposing them to potential violence.
Kuukpen noted UNDP’s commitment to financial inclusion and access to digital financial services, promising collaborations with mobile money providers to support women operating the kiosks. He highlighted the achievement as part of the Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP), aimed at bolstering rural development in Liberia.
Acting on behalf of the Minister of State, Bill Massaquoi echoed the significance of the facility and urged the community to prioritize its maintenance. “This facility belongs to you; it’s now your responsibility to manage it effectively,” he stated.
Community leaders, including Chairlady Esther Giddings, expressed their gratitude, committing to the facility’s upkeep and recognizing its potential to enhance the quality of life.
Yellequelleh District Commissioner Boye Valcpeah Saclcie also called for the expansion of similar projects to other communities to further promote safety and hope in the region.
However, the ceremony underscored UNDP’s ongoing efforts in Liberia, particularly through initiatives aimed at addressing the pressing needs of rural populations by investing in essential services like agriculture, water, health, and education.
As part of the event, over twenty farmers received certification for completing training in tractor operations, further demonstrating UNDP’s multifaceted approach to community development and empowerment. The inauguration of the water facility marks a promising step towards improved living conditions and economic opportunities for the people of Donfah, illustrating the impact of collaborative efforts between the Government of Liberia and international development partners
