WaterAid, DP World commission solar boreholes in Bauchi
By Ahmed Ahmed
WaterAid Nigeria, with funding support from DP World, has commissioned two solar-powered boreholes, two water kiosks, and three Tap Islands bringing clean water to over 4,400 residents
in Misau Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
This initiative, under the project Increasing Access to Sustainable Climate-Resilient WASH for Women in Bauchi, in Misau LGA on Wednesday aims to tackle water scarcity in the region by bringing clean, reliable water closer to homes especially for women and children.
Many communities in Bauchi still face serious challenges in accessing safe water, forcing families to rely on distant and unsafe sources.
The intervention not only bridges this gap but also champions sustainability through local ownership, capacity building, and community participation.
“I would love to be a teacher if given the opportunity to go to school, but lack of access to water is a major problem for me,” said Zainab Garba, an 18-year-old resident of Rigar Jeji.
“I do six trips every day from the community and hawk kola nuts to support my family. Having water in the community will help improve our education and economic strength.”
The commissioned facilities—located in Rigar Jeji and Bagam—are expected to directly benefit more than 4,400 people. Delivered in partnership with the Bauchi State Government through RUWASSA,
The project also established vital community management structures, including WASH Committees (WASHCOMs), trained Local Area Mechanics (LAMs), and Volunteer Hygiene Promoters (VHPs) to ensure long-term facility upkeep and promote good hygiene practices.
Evelyn Mere, Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, said, “This partnership with DP World demonstrates what is possible when we combine local leadership with global commitment.
“We are proud to see sustainable infrastructure in place that supports public health, reduces the burden on women and girls, and enhances community resilience to the effects of climate change.”
“To ensure sustainability, a community-led tariff system has been introduced to fund ongoing operations, along with a solar-powered charging point at the water kiosk to generate additional income for maintenance.
“DP World, a global leader in logistics and supply chain solutions, reaffirms its dedication to sustainable development through community-focused initiatives like this one.,” she said
Mere said the collaboration with WaterAid reflects its broader commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, especially around clean water and sanitation.
She urged the Bauchi State Government and all WASH stakeholders to scale up this model across underserved communities, strengthen systems and policies for WASH delivery, and increase investment in inclusive, climate-resilient infrastructure ensuring clean water for everyone, everywhere.
