Sierra Leone to Boost WASH Systems with £2.5 Million UK Grant
Julius Mustapha Harding Sierra Leone is set to enhance its water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) systems through a £2.5 million grant from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
The “WASH Systems Strengthening” project, which spans from 2024 to 2027, was launched on September 12, 2024, at the Sierra Palms Hotel in Freetown.
Implemented by GOAL Sierra Leone, the project aims to address the country’s long-term WASH challenges. Satya Narayan Ghosh, Climate Change Coordinator at GOAL Sierra Leone, outlined the initiative’s key objectives, including improving waste management in Freetown and establishing centers of excellence in health facilities across Moyamba, Kenema, Bombali, Makeni, and Kono districts.
Additionally, the project will work to build the capacity of service authorities and providers in these areas.
James Riak, GOAL Sierra Leone’s Country Director, emphasized the significance of tackling poor WASH practices in both urban and rural communities. He underscored that access to clean water and sanitation is a basic human right, essential for preventing diseases and fostering development.
Riak highlighted the urgent need for investment in WASH systems, particularly in the wake of global health crises like the pandemic and emerging diseases such as MPOX.
James Bond, Health Adviser at the British High Commission, raised concerns about the sustainability of past WASH projects, but expressed hope that the new initiative would deliver more lasting results.
Deputy Minister of Water Resources, Engineer Francis Alpha Kallon, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project, noting its alignment with the Medium-Term National Development Plan (MTNDP). He pledged the government’s cooperation with all stakeholders to ensure the project’s success and sustainability.