The once arduous and perilous journey for water in Tikonko, a small town in Kailahun District, has been transformed into a beacon of hope and safety, thanks to the intervention of the African Development Bank through its Post Ebola Recovery Social Investment Fund (PERSIF) project.
For years, the residents of Tikonko relied heavily on rivers and streams for their daily water needs. This dependency posed significant health risks, as the water sources were often contaminated, leading to waterborne diseases that plagued the community. Women and girls, in particular, bore the brunt of this burden, traveling miles to fetch water for cooking and drinking. The journey was not only exhausting but also fraught with dangers, including the threat of rape, snake bites, and even drowning while doing laundry in the rivers.
The construction of a new hand pump in the heart of Tikonko has brought about a dramatic change in the community’s health and safety. Funded by the PERSIF project, this initiative has provided a reliable and clean water source, significantly reducing the community’s reliance on the hazardous rivers and streams.
With the hand pump now operational, women and girls no longer have to endure the long and dangerous treks to fetch water. The pump’s proximity to their homes means they can access clean water conveniently and safely, giving them more time to focus on education and other productive activities.
The impact on the community’s health has been profound. The incidence of waterborne diseases has decreased, and overall hygiene has improved. The availability of clean water for drinking and household use has enhanced the quality of life for the residents of Tikonko.
