A devastating incident at the Seven Water Well in Bumpeh, Nimikoroo Chiefdom, has left the community in mourning. Four young boys lost their lives during the annual well-cleaning tradition, which takes place before the start of Ramadan.

The well, a vital water source for the community since the 1960s, provides drinking water to an estimated 90% of the population. Tragedy struck when two of the boys working at the bottom of the well became weak and called for help. Despite efforts to rescue them, all four boys perished.

Local authorities, including the Chairman of the Kono District Council, Mr. Augustine Sahr Shaku, and Paramount Chief’s Councilors, visited the grieving families to offer condolences and support. A donation of rice and money was provided as a gesture of sympathy.

The community leader, Pa Barrie, described the well as a “lifeline” for the town and expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He highlighted the need for a safer and more reliable water source. The Deputy Town Chief echoed these concerns, calling on the Kono District Council to assist in constructing a new well to prevent future tragedies.

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Mr. Shaku assured the community that their concerns would be addressed, promising to advocate for the construction of a new well with support from the government and humanitarian organizations. However, he cautioned that the process would take time due to necessary procedures.

A prayer service is being planned to honor the memory of the young boys who lost their lives. The community remains hopeful for a swift and secure solution to their water supply challenges as they grapple with this profound loss.