BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
GOVERNOR Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his commitment to improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in Delta State, emphasizing its role in promoting healthy living and economic growth.
The General Manager, Delta State Small Towns Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (STOWASSA), Engr. Anthony Unuafe, made this known during a local government and community stakeholders’ engagement meeting and advocacy sensitization program.
The event, organized under the World Bank’s Sustainable Urban, Rural Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) program, brought together stakeholders from 22 communities across Okpe, Ughelli North, Ukwuani, and Ndokwa West Local Government Areas.
Engr. Unuafe explained that the program was designed to educate communities on the objectives and expected outcomes of SURWASH, while also training participants on key areas such as Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), Governance Risk Compliance (GRC), and Social Behavioral Change Communication (SBCC).
He emphasized the importance of forming Water Consumer Associations (WCAs) to enhance water resource management and ensure long-term sustainability.
Additionally, the program sought to identify potential environmental and social impacts associated with its implementation and to raise awareness about the Open Defecation Free (ODF) campaign aimed at improving public hygiene.
He highlighted Governor Oborevwori’s dedication to creating a healthier environment for Deltans noting that significant progress had already been made through the provision of water supply schemes, sanitation, and WASH facilities in 52 communities across six local government areas.
In her remarks, the Vice Chairman of Okpe Local Government Area, Mrs. Mary Otikiri, expressed gratitude to the state government for the construction and rehabilitation of water supply schemes in small towns. She encouraged communities and members of the Water Consumer Association (WCA) to take ownership of these projects, ensure their sustainability, and collaborate with authorities to address any future challenges that may arise.
