The village of Soulinfily, located 35 km from Télimélé, is home to approximately 300 inhabitants. However, the community is struggling with a critical shortage of potable water. The sole borehole, constructed 25 years ago, has been out of service for years, leaving residents, particularly women, to fetch water from distant rivers and marshes. This has become a significant concern, especially during the dry season.

The village's water crisis has been ongoing since 2007, when the borehole's pump was stolen. Although repairs were made at a cost of over 8 million GNF, another breakdown occurred, and the community has been unable to repair it since. Residents are now calling on local authorities and humanitarian organizations to assist in restoring or constructing a new borehole. Kadiatou Diallo, a concerned citizen, highlighted the difficulties faced by women in accessing clean water.

Oumou Diawara emphasized the importance of water for human survival and the need for urgent rehabilitation of the old borehole. She noted that the existing infrastructure is rusted and that the nearby Tangala river, where residents currently fetch water, is far from the village. With the population growing daily, the lack of potable water has become a pressing issue. Diawara appealed to the new municipal team and the government to provide assistance.

Elhadj Souleymane Diallo stated that the water supply issue dates back to 2007, when the borehole broke down. He explained that modern technology has enabled other boreholes to function using solar power or electricity, but Soulinfily's remains non-functional. The borehole's location near the Kindia-Télimélé national road, which is frequently traversed, makes the situation even more challenging.

The scarcity of potable water has significant implications for the daily lives of Soulinfily's residents. The lack of clean water for hygiene, sanitation, and drinking purposes has become a major concern. Residents are forced to rely on distant water sources, which can lead to health issues, particularly for children and the elderly.

The community is urging authorities and humanitarian organizations to intervene and address the potable water shortage. Residents believe that restoring or constructing a new borehole will greatly alleviate their struggles. Local leaders and government officials have been made aware of the situation, and residents are hopeful that a solution will be found soon.

The water crisis in Soulinfily highlights the challenges faced by rural communities in Guinea. The situation underscores the need for investment in infrastructure and basic services, such as access to clean water, to improve the quality of life for residents in these areas.

Key points

  • The village of Soulinfily has been without functional potable water for years due to a broken 25-year-old borehole.
  • Residents, particularly women, are forced to travel long distances to fetch water from rivers and marshes.
  • The community is calling on authorities and humanitarian organizations to assist in restoring or constructing a new borehole.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.