By Haruna Kuyateh
United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) under the Jobs Skills and Finance project (JSP) funded by European Union has launched the Cash for Work Scheme to upgrade the water borehole at Jumansar Koto in Upper Badibou.
The upgrading is part of Katchang Ward Development Plan 2020. The project aimed to address water challenges faced by the community, as the absence of quality water affects the health and wellbeing of women and children.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lamin AS Marena, Senior Community Development Assistant for Upper Badibou, said the project would contribute to strengthen women and youth’s participation.
He said UNCDF contribute to enhance capacity of Ward Development Committee to prioritize development need of communities and provide fund implement development projects.
He disclosed that the upgrading of water borehole project with solar panel, pumping machine, tank capacity of 4000 liters, four taps’ head and pipe laying worth D451,000 saying “cash for work scheme would contribute, promote the culture of saving, acquire skills and individuals participating sign contract to indicate commitment to participate in the project.”
He asserted that sustainability of the project is key and therefore water management committee will be established to monitor the progress and carry out maintenance.
Tumani Trawally Ward Councilor, who doubles as chairman of Katchang ward, thanked members of the ward development committee and UNCDF through Department of Community Development for building capacity and promoting good governance.
The ward would raise 10,000 seedlings and will hire the services of personnel trained by Njawara Agricultural Training Centre as Nursery Attendants. Abdoulie Sighateh Alkalo of Jumansar Koto thanked the Ward Development Committee and donor for the support
He used the moment to launch an appeal to government and NGOs to support fishermen with fishing boat, noting that the recent outbreak at the fibber boat contributes to fish scarcity.
Bigi Jallow of Katchang Ward Development Committee of Mbatang in Upper Badibou, Fulou Saidy women leader among others made remarks and thanked the sponsors of the project,
