Ghana Maritime Authority, Humanity First commission 4 boreholes in Wa to end water scarcity and keep children in class

The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), collaborating with the humanitarian group Humanity First Ghana, has installed four solar-powered boreholes in the Wa Municipality. These facilities are part of a seven-borehole Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program aimed at alleviating water scarcity, enhancing sanitation, and preserving instructional time in the Upper West Region.

Director General of the GMA, Naval Captain (Rtd) Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, emphasized the critical role of water in life, noting that without it, educational attainment and health deteriorate. “Water is very key to life. Without water, there is no education, no survival, and health problems multiply,” he stated. These boreholes will be installed directly in schools and communities to prevent students from leaving for water, thus maintaining their education.

Following the handovers in Motigu and the initial installations in Wa, more mechanized water systems will be introduced in Jirapa and Nandom. The initiative has already provided immediate relief to schools in Wa that previously faced disruptions due to water shortages. At T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School, which has 1,433 students, Headmaster Issahaque Yahaya recounted how the lack of reliable water led to sanitation issues, with students suffering from typhoid.

The new borehole, powered by solar energy, has ensured a constant supply, even during power outages, allowing students to attend class without disruptions. Girls’ Prefect Mac Adams Qaaimah highlighted that students now bathe twice daily and can focus more on their studies. At Boli M/A Primary B, Headteacher Osman Issah explained that teachers used to send students into the community to fetch water, which ceased after the new borehole's installation.

In remote areas of Biihee and Chansa, residents are relieved to no longer need to pay for water, as the facility is free for everyone.