By Abubakarr Harding
In a historic move, the Sierra Leone Employers Federation (SLEF) declared the initiation of the ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ on Thursday, November 16, 2023. This collaborative venture, supported by key partners, including the International Labour Office, and generously funded by the UNCDF and UN Peacebuilding Fund, is set to combat water scarcity issues in five targeted communities: Mayenkineh, Rokupa, Dwarzack, Crab Town-Aberdeen, and Lumley Community.
The primary objective of the project is the installation of water wells to ensure a sustainable supply of purified water, with a specific focus on addressing the challenges confronted by women and girls in these communities.
Addressing the residents of Dwarzack Community on November 16, 2023, Albert Ojo Collier, the Executive Secretary of SLEF, underscored the pivotal role women play in water-related activities and the risks they encounter, including physical violence and sexual exploitation during late-night water retrieval.
Collier emphasized, “The ‘Women for Water and Peace Project’ is a crucial stride towards ensuring that women and girls no longer endure hardships in their quest for water.” He stressed the significance of placing women’s groups in charge of the wells, not only to tackle water-related issues but also to economically empower the community.
In a detailed presentation on the role of women in the water kiosk business, Fatmata Kamara from the West Africa Network for Peace Building highlighted the employment opportunities it presents for women in the community. Kamara expressed optimism that the kiosk business would enhance women’s self-reliance, boost confidence, and decrease instances of child pregnancies. She urged community residents to take ownership of the wells, ensuring proper maintenance and transparency in handling funds generated through water sales for broader community development.
Representing the Sierra Leone Employers Federation, Memish Doherty delivered a presentation on sexual gender-based violence, emphasizing its significant threat to the education of young girls. Doherty expressed hope that the construction of wells would contribute to reducing such incidents and urged girls to exercise caution, especially during nighttime activities.
Expressing gratitude for the proposed wells, Fatmata Kamara, a student in the Dwarzack community, anticipated a positive impact on their daily lives. She highlighted the challenges students face when fetching water, causing delays in attending school. Kamara thanked the project stakeholders and urged a swift commencement and completion of the wells to alleviate their struggles.
