The people of Gorlu community in Salayea District, Lofa County, are celebrating a new chapter in their lives as they finally gain access to clean and fresh water, thanks to the Lutheran Development Service through its Community Livelihood Assistance Project. This transformative initiative has brought immense relief to families who, for years, struggled with unsafe water sources and the challenges of waterborne diseases.
For generations, the people of Gorlu relied on streams and hand-dug wells that often dried up or became contaminated during the rainy season. The lack of access to clean water led to increased health issues, particularly among children and the elderly. Women and children walked long distances daily to fetch water, taking valuable time away from school, farming, and other essential activities.
Through the CLAP Project, funded by Bread for The World, and implemented by LDS, a modern hand pump has been constructed at a central location in Gorlu. This vital infrastructure now provides safe drinking water to hundreds of residents, improving overall hygiene, health, and productivity in the community.
Meanwhile, women and youth also shared their excitement. Madam Yatta Kollie, a mother of three, remarked,
“Before this project, we used to wake up early in the morning and walk miles just to get water. Now, we have clean water right here in our village. This means better health for our children and more time for us to focus on farming and other work.”
To ensure sustainability, the CLAP Project has also provided training for a local Water Management Committee, equipping members with the skills to maintain and protect the water source. The committee will oversee regular maintenance and promote good hygiene practices to keep the water supply safe.
A Model for Rural Development
The success of the CLAP Project in Gorlu is a testament to the power of community-driven development. It highlights the importance of collaboration between local communities, government authorities, and development partners in achieving sustainable progress.
With fresh water now flowing in Gorlu, hope has been restored, and a brighter future awaits the people of this resilient community. As other villages in Lofa County look to replicate this success, the impact of the CLAP Project will continue to inspire and transform lives across the region.
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