The upper east region of Ghana has plenty of sunshine. What it lacks is clean water. So on July 11th, 2024, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints joined with Engage Now Africa, a non-governmental organization (NGO), to hand-off a solar-powered borehole water system that provides local residents with easily accessible clean water.
In collaboration with the NGO, The Church worked to build the solar-powered system as a supplement to previous charity and government solutions that, despite great effort, have struggled because of extreme environmental challenges. The solar-powered pumps now fill 5000 liter tanks with clean water, providing a more steady and reliable supply of water. The ready availability of clean water eases the burden on women and children who previously had to travel long distances to access clean water for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
The hand-off was capped by a ceremonial tape cutting by Naba Francis Awineparigiya Anaafo, a traditional chief of Mirigu Pungbisi Community. Speeches by the Honorable Gerald Ataogye, District Chief Executive of the Kassena Nankana District, along with remarks by Mr. Anaafo, both expressed deep appreciation for the water system, the chief in particular emphasizing the healing and uplifting effect the system will have on the lives of the community.
Following the remarks, one of the tribal women drew the first water to come out of the system. Then, community members, in joyful celebration of the event, began to sing and dance. The excitement of all participants was contagious.
The boreholes will benefit communities in the upper east region of Ghana, including Uya, Manyoro, Chiana, Gomongo, and Mirigu.