Gold Fields Ghana Foundation Inaugurates Major Water Project in Badukrom

The ceremony, attended by the elders, the Assemblyman, and the trained Water and Sanitation Committee (WATSAN), represents a substantial investment of GH¢285,000 aimed at alleviating water challenges in the area.Replacement and Renewed Commitment:
Executive Secretary of the GFGF, Abdel Razak Yakubu, revealed that this project replaces an older facility provided to Badukrom approximately five years ago, which had developed significant operational problems. "The pump rate became very discouraging," Yakubu explained. "It took about 2-3 hours to fill the tanks, leading to high operational costs for the community."

While inaugurating the new system, Yakubu emphasized that it is currently within the defect liability period. He urged residents to use it and report any issues promptly so contractors can rectify them. Crucially, he issued a challenge regarding sustainability: "We have sounded a caution... we can’t keep going and coming back to do new projects when old ones are down."

Yakubu announced a joint investigation with the community into the exact cause of the old system's failure – whether mechanical (pump) or operational – pledging to rectify the old system if feasible, stressing Badukrom needs multiple sources. He commended the Assemblyman and the community for pledging to surpass the exemplary maintenance record set by New Atuabo, which expanded upon three GFGF projects to build four additional facilities and connect local schools at no cost.Sustainability: The Non-Negotiable Priority:
The message of community ownership and financial responsibility was strongly echoed by Sofo Johnson, Water and Sanitation Officer at the Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipal Assembly. "Water is not free anywhere in the world," Johnson stated bluntly. "If you are privileged to have a company give you water for free, it behoves you also to maintain it and pay something for it."

Johnson warned of strict monitoring: "We will soon come for monitoring... if we realise you are fetching the water for free without paying, we will lock it till you decide to do the right thing." He specifically called for an end to "protocols" allowing chiefs, elders, and assembly members to fetch water without payment, stressing that universal contributions are essential for sustainable maintenance.

Community Gratitude and Pledge:
The Okyeame of Badukrom expressed profound gratitude to the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation for the vital facility. He echoed the calls for community-wide cooperation in maintenance, pleading with residents to ensure the project's longevity and benefit for all, hoping it would pave the way for additional facilities in the future.Part of a Broader Initiative:
Yakubu noted this handover follows closely on the heels of a similar project at Fiaseman Senior High School. He also highlighted several ongoing or planned water projects within Gold Fields' operational areas, including Mile 10 village (Damang side), Huniso, Huni Valley, and Akoon.

Investing in Life:
The GFGF underscored that the GH¢285,000 investment was crucial. "We believe it’s a good investment... since water, as we say, is life," Yakubu stated. However, the day's resounding message, directed squarely at the Badukrom community and its leaders, was clear: this gift of life requires diligent, responsible, and financially contributory stewardship to endure. The foundation and municipal authorities are counting on Badukrom to follow New Atuabo's lead and ensure this facility thrives for years to come.

Source: Nana Esi Brew Monney

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