Wudzedeke: World Vision Ghana has commissioned solar-powered mechanized boreholes for the residents of Wudzedeke and Bedzame in the Agortime-Ziope District of the Volta Region. This initiative marks the end of years of water scarcity and associated health issues in the area.
According to Ghana News Agency, the borehole was initially drilled in 2021 by the Haven Hand of Rescue Project. It was later mechanized by World Vision and officially handed over to the communities in a ceremony attended by local leaders and community members. Dr. Gregory Allgood, Director of Water at World Vision US, noted the dire situation when they first visited Wudzedeke, where residents were consuming unsafe water. Health issues like diarrhoea, typhoid fever, and skin rashes were prevalent due to contaminated water sources.
Dr. Allgood emphasized World Vision’s commitment to providing safe drinking water and highlighted the organization’s long-term efforts in Ghana, where they have established 4,000 water points benefiting 1.5 million people. He outlined a broader vision to expand access to safe water across 23 districts, reaching 700,000 people, 500 schools, and 200 healthcare centers.
Mr. Irvine Aboagye, Regional Operations Manager of World Vision, underscored the significance of the new system in reducing poverty and improving health. Financed at US$25,000 through World Vision USA and its donors, the mechanized system offers reliable and sustainable access to potable water. Mr. Aboagye acknowledged Haven Hands for their initial drilling efforts while urging the community to maintain the facility diligently.
Mr. Alfred Eklu Odikro, the District Chief Executive, praised the intervention as both timely and transformative, stating that access to water is crucial for health, education, agriculture, and sustainable development. He encouraged the community to take ownership of the project.
Awadada Vizaze Adzaho V, Warlord of the Ziope Traditional Area, expressed gratitude for the project, highlighting the community’s past struggles with unsafe water. He confirmed that the community is committed to sustaining the project and has already taken steps to ensure its ongoing maintenance. Additionally, he appealed to World Vision for support in constructing household latrines, addressing the challenges posed by poor soil conditions.
The commissioning ceremony was graced by Torgbui Kiti Kata I, Chairman of the Haven Hand of Rescue Project, along with other traditional leaders and officials.