Residents of Sokolo-Debibi and Agyawiam in the Tain District of the Bono Region have received a major boost in their fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) following the commissioning of mechanised boreholes to provide safe and reliable drinking water.
The intervention, funded by Anesvad Foundation, forms part of the Community Integration and Systems Strengthening Project aimed at reducing the burden of NTDs in vulnerable communities.
The newly commissioned water facilities comprise mechanised boreholes fitted with electric pumping machines and large polytanks to ensure constant water supply for the beneficiary communities.
Speaking at separate durbars at Sokolo-Debibi and Agyawiam communities to mark the commissioning, the Executive Director of Tim Africa Aid Ghana, Mr Isaac Kwabena Kakpeibe explained that the provision of potable water was a strategic intervention to help curb the spread of NTDs.
He noted that many NTDs thrive in environments with poor sanitation and unsafe water sources, stressing that access to clean water would significantly reduce infections and improve the overall health of the residents.
“This intervention is to support the communities to win the fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases. Access to safe drinking water is critical in breaking the cycle of these diseases,” he said.
Mr Kakpeibe urged the community members to actively support the fight against NTDs and show compassion to affected persons, while ensuring proper maintenance of the water facilities.
He emphasised the need for each community to establish a functional water management committee to oversee the operations, promote hygiene practices and ensure sustainability through routine maintenance.
The Assembly Member for the Sokolo-Debibi Electoral Area, Mr Ofosu Francis, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the chiefs and people, commending the organisations for their continuous support to the area.
He appealed for more development interventions to improve the living conditions of the people.
The Tain District Health Directorate also used the platform to intensify public education on NTDs. The District Focal Person, Mr Philip Yeboah sensitised residents on diseases such as elephantiasis, Buruli ulcer, leprosy, and yaws, urging them to report early signs to the nearest health facility.
He explained that Buruli ulcer, in particular, spreads in insanitary environments, and called for improved hygiene practices within the communities.
The Tain District Health Director, Madam Agnes Aseidu, applauded GLOMEF Ghana, Tim Africa Aid Ghana, and their partners for the intervention.
She called for stronger collaboration among the stakeholders to address health challenges in the district and advised residents to prioritise regular bathing, avoid open defecation and rely on safe drinking water sources.
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Representing the District Chief Executive, Mr. Iddrisa Salia, the District Planning Officer, Mr Pamphilio Annung-Yeni, disclosed that the Assembly had also drilled 17 boreholes across the district to help prevent diseases, including NTDs.
However, he expressed concern about the sustainability of such projects and urged traditional leaders and community members to take ownership of the facilities to ensure their longevity.
Traditional authorities in the beneficiary communities welcomed the intervention with excitement. The Chief of Brenyekwa-Sokolo, Nana Manu who also serves as Chairman of the community’s health committee, recounted their long struggle with waterborne diseases such as guinea worm and onchocerciasis.
He expressed gratitude for the project and pledged the community’s commitment to maintaining the facility. He also appealed for the establishment of a market to boost local economic activities.
In Agyawiam, Nana Kwaku Firi and other residents, particularly women, shared their relief and appreciation.
Some of the women, including Abena Saaba and Paulina Manu, said they previously had to walk long distances after strenuous farm work to fetch water from unsafe sources.
“It was very difficult for us. The water we used to drink was not clean, and it affected our health. This project has brought great relief to all women in this community,” they said.
Project engineers indicated that the installed water systems are robust and could serve the communities for over 30 years if properly maintained. They underscored the importance of community ownership and regular upkeep.
Mr. Jesse Emmanuel Sarkodie, Project Officer for GLOMEF Ghana said the commissioning marks a significant step towards improving public health and enhancing the quality of life for residents in the Tain District.
He further said, his organisation and its key stakeholders would continue to intensify efforts to eliminate the Neglected Tropical Diseases in the affected communities, and called for community support and collaboration.
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