Water Day launched in Bo
The Ministry of Water Resources in collaboration with development partners at the weekend joined the world to commemorate the ‘World Water Day’ with the theme: “Water and Jobs.”
The commemoration ceremony, which attracted policy-makers, development partners, media practitioners and other stakeholders, was held at the Bo District Council Hall on Sewa Road.
In his keynote address, the Minister of Water Resources, Mr. Momodu Maligie, traced the international observation of the day as far back as in 1993 as a way of promoting water issues worldwide.
He said the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development thought it fit to promote water issue worldwide, adding that today 1.5 billion people work in water related sectors with nearly all jobs depending on water. The Minister said the theme “Water and Jobs” focused on how enough quantity and quality of water can change workers’ lives and livelihoods, and even transform societies and economies.
He called on all to take greater care of the water pipes that are being laid in Bo city in order for all to afford and access safe drinking water. Water resources, Minister Momodu Maligie stressed, are contributing economically and significantly to the water industries wherein the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
He disclosed that the annual water-related deaths are estimated at 2.3, adding that since the formation of the Ministry, water facility was only meant for half a million people but as the country continues to expand, more is being done to meet the needs of more people. In his statement, the Team Leader Water Aid Liberia and Sierra Leone, Chuchu Kordor Selma, disclosed that water aid started in Sierra Leone in 1981 but left during the war years.
He said they however resumed operation in 2009 and they are currently operating in the district headquarters of Kenema, Pujehun and Bonthe.
The Team Leader also disclosed that they are expected to establish offices in Kailahun, Bo and other district headquarters.
Chuchu Kordor Selma emphasized that water is the growth of the nation and without the use of water the country will not run smoothly as all the sectors need waters. Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of Bo District Council, Joseph Munda Bindi, described the ‘World Water Day’ as not only important but timely.
He said commemorating the ‘World Water Day’ shows how much premium the world has placed on water issues.
Chairman Bindi acknowledged the fact that there are many challenges facing the water sector and everyone therefore needs to give a helping hand. Other speakers at the ceremony were the General Manager of Guma Valley Water Company (GVWC), Bankole Mansaray, Director General of Sierra Leone Water Company (SALWACO), and many others.
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