By Amin Kef (Ranger)
The commitment of Daklala M. Antar, Honorary Consul of Mexico in Sierra Leone, to community development and access to safe drinking water has been widely praised following the successful completion and handover of a modern water facility to three schools in Lakka.
The project, which was jointly funded by the Honorary Consulate of Mexico in Sierra Leone and the Lakka community, was officially handed over on Tuesday, 16 June 2026, during celebrations marking the Day of the African Child. The event was held under the theme: “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa.”
The water facility, comprising large storage tanks and standing taps, was presented to Gaston Junior Secondary School, Lakka Community Primary School and Lakka Nursery and Preparatory School, among other beneficiaries. The intervention is expected to significantly improve access to clean and safe drinking water for hundreds of pupils and teachers who have long struggled with water shortages.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lakka Community Headman, Peter Davies, disclosed that the project became possible through a strong partnership between the community and the Honorary Consulate of Mexico in Sierra Leone, led by Daklala M. Antar.
According to Peter Davies, the original plan was limited to the installation of standing taps. However, with the timely support and intervention of the Mexican Honorary Consul, the scope of the project was expanded to include Milla water storage tanks, ensuring a more reliable and sustainable water supply for the schools.
He explained that each Milla tank costs more than NLe11,000, excluding installation and other project expenses, underscoring the significance of the contribution made through the partnership.
“The support from the Honorary Consulate enabled us to do more than we initially planned. Today, our schools not only have water taps but also adequate storage facilities that will guarantee a continuous supply of water,” he stated.
Peter Davies noted that the project aligns with his administration’s vision of improving water, sanitation and hygiene facilities within the community. He emphasized that access to clean water remains a critical component of public health, education and community development.
Addressing stakeholders during the event, he called on school authorities, parents and community members to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities so that future generations can continue to benefit from the investment.
“We should not only celebrate what has been provided today but also reflect on its importance and our collective responsibility to preserve it. As a community, we will continue to play our part,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to improving access to water in the community, the Headman declared: “I am obliged to provide clean and safe drinking water for my community because water is my symbol.”
The ceremony attracted community stakeholders, school administrators, parents, pupils and local leaders, many of whom commended Peter Davies and his Executive for prioritizing the welfare of school children.
Several speakers also paid tribute to Daklala M. Antar for supporting the initiative, describing his contribution as a demonstration of meaningful diplomatic engagement that directly impacts local communities.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Salamatu Bangura, a parent; Tunde V.T. Small, Principal of Gaston Memorial Secondary School; Thomas Shellon, a community stakeholder and other attendees. They noted that inadequate access to water had negatively affected learning in schools for many years, forcing some pupils to leave school premises whenever they needed water or sanitary facilities.
The speakers expressed confidence that the new water system would help create a healthier learning environment, improve school attendance and contribute to better academic performance.
An emotional vote of thanks delivered by a pupil from one of the beneficiary schools highlighted the impact the facility would have on children’s daily lives. The pupil thanked the Headman, the Executive and the project partners for addressing one of the schools’ most pressing challenges.
The project also reflects the growing development-oriented role being played by Daklala M. Antar since his appointment as Honorary Consul of Mexico in Sierra Leone in April 2026.
His appointment was announced during a diplomatic ceremony at State House in Freetown, where the Mexican Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Norma Ang Sanchez, presented her Letters of Credence to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio. During the ceremony, Ambassador Norma Ang Sanchez formally introduced Daklala M. Antar as Mexico’s Honorary Consul in Sierra Leone.
Since assuming office, Daklala M. Antar has pledged to strengthen relations between Sierra Leone and Mexico through initiatives focused on trade, investment, cultural exchange, agriculture and community development.
Observers say the successful implementation of the Lakka water project demonstrates how diplomatic partnerships can deliver tangible benefits to local communities while strengthening bilateral cooperation between nations.
For residents of Lakka, the new facility represents more than infrastructure; it symbolizes hope, improved health, enhanced learning opportunities and a shared commitment to ensuring that every child has access to clean and safe water.
