The Türkiye Diyanet Foundation has completed a solar-powered borehole in Kwerjik, on the outskirts of Juba, the national capital of South Sudan. The new water system is equipped with an automatic pumping system and two water tanks, with a combined capacity to supply approximately 4,000 litres of water daily. This development aims to improve access to clean and safe drinking water for thousands of vulnerable people in the area.
For years, residents of Kwerjik have relied on a nearby stream as their main source of water. However, during the dry season, declining water levels often leave the stream dirty and unsafe for consumption. This exposes residents to health risks associated with contaminated water, including waterborne diseases. The new solar-powered system is expected to provide the community with a more reliable source of clean water, reducing dependence on unsafe water sources.
Osman Turk, the African representative for the Turkiye Diyanet Foundation, expressed the commitment of the Turkish government and people to support their "brothers and sisters" in South Sudan. At a ceremony to open the water point, Turk stated that water is essential for survival, and they are determined to support the community. He also mentioned that they intend to undertake another project in the future.
Mary Sebila, a 31-year-old mother of three, described the community's long-standing dependence on the stream. She stated that fetching water from the stream was challenging, especially during the dry season when the water level drops, leaving the water dirty. Sebila appreciated the support provided by partners, emphasizing that getting clean drinking water is becoming increasingly difficult without this support.
Machar Butic, the community chief of Kwerjik area, expressed gratitude to the South Sudanese and Turkish governments for providing clean drinking water to thousands in the area. He mentioned that the community had a water pump before, but it broke down, and people had to return to fetching water from the stream. Butic highlighted the need for more aid agencies to assist Kwerjik, Natoro, and Nus with water, citing the distances involved and the prevalence of waterborne diseases.
The community in Kwerjik has welcomed the new water point, with many residents expressing gratitude to the Türkiye Diyanet Foundation. Albino Mayom Awer, the youth representative in Kwerjik, emphasized the critical importance of support from the Turkiye Diyanet Foundation. The community looks forward to a future with improved access to clean and safe drinking water.
The Türkiye Diyanet Foundation's project in Kwerjik is a significant step towards improving the lives of thousands of people in South Sudan. The solar-powered borehole is expected to have a lasting impact on the community, providing a reliable source of clean water and reducing the risk of waterborne diseases. The Turkish government's commitment to supporting the community is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between South Sudan and Türkiye.
Key points
- The Türkiye Diyanet Foundation has constructed a solar-powered borehole in Kwerjik, South Sudan, providing 4,000 litres of clean water daily to residents.
- The new water system aims to reduce dependence on unsafe water sources and the risk of waterborne diseases in the community.
- The Turkish government's support for the community is a significant step towards improving the lives of thousands of people in South Sudan.
