(OLAM AGRI) – As part of its Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability (CR&S) initiatives, Olam Agri, a leading agribusiness has successfully commissioned a solar-powered, motorised borehole with a 10,000-litre capacity in the Babenga community, Cameroon. This project, aptly named “Safe Water”, is a targeted intervention aimed at addressing the urgent need for access to clean and potable water in rural areas.
The Babenga community expressed profound gratitude and joy at the commissioning of the borehole, which is expected to significantly reduce the time and effort spent on daily water collection and help mitigate waterborne illnesses. In line with its commitment to long-term sustainability, Olam Agri not only constructed and handed over the borehole but also established a Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Committee (WASHCOM). In addition, local area mechanics received training to ensure ongoing maintenance and functionality of the facility.
Speaking on behalf of the Heads of Families in Babenga, Mr Ekambi Ekambi Emile shared: “We have faced numerous challenges due to the poor quality of water we previously consumed. Diarrhoea, bacterial infections, cholera and other illnesses were common. Today, we thank God that the heavens have opened so greatly upon Babenga. Olam Agri has gifted us this water pump, which we consider as precious as gold. It will allow us to live healthier lives, just like others.”
Derefaka Derefaka, Project Associate, Global CR&S, Olam Agri, stated: “Water is essential, and that is why we launched the Safe Water project to provide and improve access to safe, clean and drinkable water for our farming and rural communities. This initiative is especially beneficial to women and children, who traditionally bear the daily responsibility of water collection.”
Ashu Ma-Mbeng Success, Head of Corporate Communications and Sustainability for Olam Agri in Cameroon, added: “Water is life. This project has not only given hope but has brought life to the people of Babenga, supporting them to live healthily and reducing water-related health issues.”
The implementation of the borehole was carried out by Roots Suits & Empower, while the water purification and treatment process was managed by MAISON ADA, ensuring the water provided is safe for consumption.
This initiative has already begun to positively impact families in the community, improving health outcomes and enhancing quality of life.
