By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a landmark development on Thursday, January 25, 2024, the Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, unveiled the Western Area Peninsula Water Fund (WAPWF), a groundbreaking $2 million initiative aimed at safeguarding the watershed of Greater Freetown and ensuring a reliable supply of clean water for both upstream and downstream users.
This collaborative effort, a partnership between Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC), in coordination with various local and national stakeholders, marks a significant stride towards sustainable water resource management.
The Western Area Peninsula Water Fund (WAPWF), Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, is a pioneering initiative, first of its kind in West Africa and aims to establish financial mechanisms supporting water conservation and accessibility in the Western Area.
The $2 million Western Area Peninsula Water Fund is a collaboration between the Ministry of Water Resources, Water Fund for Africa, Catholic Relief Services and The Nature Conservancy. Gracing the launch were representatives from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies dedicated to water resources, planning, and environmental protection.
Chaired by the Honorable Deputy Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Ing Francis Alpha Kallon, the event marked a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s commitment to sustainable water management.
The partnership between diverse stakeholders highlights the government’s dedication to addressing water scarcity concerns and preserving the environment for future generations.
As the Western Area Peninsula Water Fund embarks on its operations, it is poised to make a substantial impact on water conservation efforts in the region. The fund, totaling $2 million, aims to ensure a stable and reliable water supply for communities in the Western Area, contributing to the overall well-being of the population.
Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh expressed the historic significance of the launch, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to delivering tangible results in providing clean water for all citizens. The Western Area Peninsula Forest National Park, a biodiversity hotspot hosting 80-90% of Sierra Leone’s terrestrial biodiversity, will be a focal point for the Water Fund’s efforts.
Managed within the National Water Resources Management Agency of the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, the Water Fund seeks to secure water sources, protect livelihoods, combat climate change, and conserve natural habitats and water towers.
Jennifer Overton, CRS’ Regional Director for West Africa, emphasized the foundational role of water security in humanitarian and development programs, stating, “This program will restore the Western Area Peninsula National Park, safeguard the delicate balance of nature, and secure the future of Freetown’s water supply.”
Ademola Ajagbe, TNC’s Africa Regional Managing Director, highlighted the collaborative approach of the Water Fund, uniting various sectors for the common goal of achieving water security. The projected economic and social benefits of the fund for Greater Freetown are estimated to reach $55 million over 30 years, with a $20 million investment allocated to protect and restore critical ecological infrastructure. This groundbreaking initiative is expected to generate significant benefits for the community, with every dollar invested by the fund projected to yield at least $2.70 in returns.
Research indicates that this initiative will play a vital role in ensuring water quality and quantity in Greater Freetown, delivering economic and social benefits to the community. The Water Fund is projected to generate approximately $55 million in economic and social benefits over a 30-year period, with a $20 million investment dedicated to protecting and restoring critical ecological infrastructure. This means that every dollar invested is expected to yield at least $2.70 in benefits for the community, demonstrating the potential for lasting positive impact.
