UNDP Dedicates US$ 83,711 Solar-Powered Water Facility in Donfah Community, Bong County
By Amos Harris
The residents of Donfah Community in Yellequelleh Administrative District, Bong County are celebrating a transformative milestone: the commissioning of a modern water facility valued at $83,711.82.
The facility, funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is expected to provide clean and safe drinking water to over 2,000 residents.
The project was officially inaugurated on Friday, December 20, 2024, as part of UNDP’s Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP).
Speaking at the dedication ceremony, UNDP Country Representative Louis Kuukpen emphasized the significance of the initiative in improving the quality of life for Liberia’s rural population.
“This project reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainable development and addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable communities in Liberia,” Mr. Kuukpen stated.
Powered by solar energy and equipped with a chlorination unit, the water facility ensures a reliable and safe supply, addressing long-standing health concerns like waterborne diseases.
Launched in October 2022, the ACDP is a joint initiative between the Liberian government and UNDP aimed at tackling key development challenges in areas such as agriculture, water, sanitation, health, education, and infrastructure.
The program aligns with Liberia’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a projected $100 million budget for its first three years.
Interim ACDP Manager Boye Johnson noted the water facility’s role in enhancing the safety and well-being of women and children who previously faced security risks traveling long distances to fetch water.
“This is the first of five water projects currently underway. Similar facilities in Mardina and Totoquelleh in Gbarpolu County will be completed by January 2025, with others in Yarkpah Town, Rivercess County, and Bopolu, Gbarpolu County, ready by February 2025.
The total investment for these projects stands at $388,641.23,” Mr. Johnson explained, beyond water infrastructure, the ACDP has achieved remarkable milestones, including transitioning 12 farmers’ organizations into cooperatives.
Training 28 operators to improve tractor usage and farming efficiency. Equipping over 2,000 farmers with modern tools. Investing $700,000 in rice, cassava, and sugarcane mills. Donating seven ambulances worth $354,385.64 to underserved communities.
Mr. Johnson also announced plans to build three agricultural processing and storage facilities in Gbarpolu, Bong, and Rivercess Counties, with the first project in Bopolu City set for January 2025.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of State, Bill Massaquoi commended UNDP’s contributions, highlighting the water facility’s potential to reduce illnesses and improve livelihoods in Donfah.
He urged the community to prioritize maintenance.
“This facility belongs to you. Its success depends on your commitment to taking care of it,” Mr. Massaquoi remarked.
Chairlady Esther Giddings expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the Donfah Community, pledging to ensure the facility’s upkeep.
“This water facility has eased our challenges. We will ensure it serves our community for years to come,” she stated.
Yellequelleh Commissioner Boye Valcpeah Saclcie praised UNDP’s efforts in Bong County and appealed for the expansion of similar projects to other towns and districts.
“This facility has brought safety and hope to our people, we urge UNDP and the government to replicate this project in more communities,” Commissioner Saclcie said.
Representing Cape Automotive Solutions, Madam Munah Tubman commended UNDP for training local students and equipping them with skills in various fields. “This initiative has given young people an opportunity to achieve their goals and make meaningful contributions to their communities,” she remarked.
The dedication ceremony brought together government officials, local leaders, chiefs, elders, and transitional representatives, all united in their appreciation for UNDP and the government’s unwavering support for Liberia’s development.
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