Monrovia, Liberia – The evaluation of new facilities built with funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB) will result in the regular delivery of water to Districts Number 4 and 13 of Montserrado County. The evaluation, which took place on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, focused on Soul Clinic facilities as well as the towns in New Georgia.
The assessment tour was organized by the WASH Legislative Caucus Secretariat including Montserrado District #4 and #13 representatives Edward P. Flomo and Michael Thomas, as well as Chairman of the WASH Legislative Caucus, Grand Bassa County District #5 Representative Thomas Goshua along with a technical team from the Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) also participated.
Representative Anthony Williams of MaryLand County District #2 provided an explanation of the tour’s objectives, explaining that it was to evaluate the restroom and water facilities that the government had just built through the LWSC with funding from the AfDB.
The findings from the assessment will be presented to the Speaker of the House for further action to alleviate challenges faced by residents in the affected communities. Representative Williams emphasized the importance of ensuring the sustainability of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services in light of challenges in the sector.
“We will work with the LWSC and other partners to ensure that the right actions are taken,” said Representative Williams. “We cannot afford to let these facilities remain dormant; the WASH sector is critical for our survival as a community.”
Representative Michael Thomas also addressed the persistent issues faced by the community, such as open defecation and challenges with project funding and management. He expressed concern that facilities, including a significant water tower in Soul Clinic, had been constructed but not yet put to use since 2017.
“We need to move forward and make these facilities viable for community use. We will remain engaged until the water system is operational and the people can benefit.”
The government of Liberia, through the WASH Commission, LWSC, and other relevant agencies, invested significant resources in these projects with support from the AfDB. The goal now is to ensure that the facilities are properly maintained and made accessible to all residents.
The successful operation of these new facilities will greatly enhance the quality of life for residents in Districts #4 and #13, providing them with reliable access to clean water and improved sanitation.
Reported by: Simeon S. Wiakanty
Contact: +231881538878
