The Joy Of Water Security In Nigeria

The dry season (November - March/April) significantly increases water scarcity across Nigeria. Communities are compelled to buy drinking water from water vendors who get the water from contaminated sources. The alternative for the communities is to fetch water from local rivers and streams which are equally unsafe. This situation places both financial and health burdens on these vulnerable communities. It is no surprise then, the joy and the thankfulness the communities express when they get their own clean sustainable water supply. This was the scene at Tongo Community, Vandeikya LGA of Benue State with the recent commissioning of a solar-powered borehole with 25,000-litre storage tank funded by WorldServe. They laughed, cheered, and danced as no longer will families, women, and children especially walk long distances in search of water. The Community’s easy access to safe water, also brings dignity, and improved health and enhanced quality of life. The facilities provided is adequate for the community, as it has been designed to serve a community of at least 3,000 people, ensuring consistent access to clean and safe water. By reducing dependence on water vendors, who often charge exorbitant prices for disease ladened water, the facilities enable households to save limited financial resources while safeguarding their health. There is now improved water security and reduce economic strain on household meagre finances. There has also been improved community health with the reduced exposure to water-borne diseases and enhanced community resilience during the dry season.

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