The Talensi District Assembly in the Upper East Region has commissioned and handed over 25 newly drilled boreholes to beneficiary communities across the district, significantly improving access to safe and potable water for thousands of residents.
The commissioning exercise, held in phases across various electoral areas, was attended by the Member of Parliament for Talensi, Daniel Dung Mahama, the District Chief Executive (DCE), John Millim Nabwomya, traditional leaders, assembly members, and contractors who executed the projects.
Addressing Years of Water Hardship
For years, several communities within the district have grappled with acute water challenges, forcing residents—particularly women and schoolchildren—to embark on long daily treks in search of water. In some areas, households relied on wells dug decades ago, many of which have become unsafe due to algae accumulation and deteriorating walls. Others crossed streams during the rainy season to fetch water from neighbouring communities, exposing themselves to health and safety risks.
The newly drilled boreholes are expected to end this long-standing hardship by providing reliable and clean drinking water closer to homes, schools, and community centres.
Funded Through the Common Fund Allocation
The borehole projects were funded through the Assembly’s share of the District Assemblies Common Fund (DACF), specifically from the 10 per cent allocation earmarked for water provision. The initiative underscores the Assembly’s commitment to prioritising essential social services and improving living conditions for residents.
Speaking to the media during the commissioning tour, DCE John Millim Nabwomya explained that the exercise formed part of a broader strategy to tackle water scarcity in the district.
“I have been going around the whole day with my Honourable Member of Parliament for Talensi to commission a number of boreholes that we have drilled for the communities,” he stated. “So far, there are about 25 boreholes under this project, aside from five additional mechanised boreholes for some institutions.”
Phased Implementation
According to the DCE, the current commissioning marks the first major phase of the water intervention project. Initially, 15 boreholes were completed and handed over in the first round, with the remaining boreholes delivered subsequently to bring the total to 25 across the district.
The five additional mechanised boreholes, targeted at selected institutions, are expected to further enhance water supply capacity and support institutional needs, particularly in schools and health facilities.
Relief and Development Impact
The provision of the boreholes is anticipated to have far-reaching social and economic impacts. Beyond improving public health by reducing reliance on unsafe water sources, the intervention is expected to ease the burden on women and children, allowing more time for education and productive activities.
Residents in beneficiary communities have expressed appreciation to the Assembly and government for responding to their long-standing concerns, describing the intervention as timely and life-changing.
With the completion of the 25 boreholes, the Talensi District Assembly says it remains committed to expanding access to potable water and addressing other critical development needs within the district.
Source; BlueWaves Radio 93.7 FM | Maurice Duncan
