The Freetown City Council (FCC) has made significant strides in expanding access to safe and reliable water for thousands of residents across the city, particularly in underserved communities. Over the past six years, FCC has led various sustainable water initiatives under the Transform Freetown agenda, prioritizing informal settlements, markets, schools, and health facilities.

As part of the latest phase of its Transform Freetown – Transforming Lives initiative, FCC has embarked on the construction of 65 solar-powered boreholes across the city. This project, supported by the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and funded by the Swiss Development Cooperation through the Blue Peace Project and the UN Peacebuilding Fund, aims to provide sustainable water solutions for Freetown’s growing population.

So far, 25 solar-powered water kiosks have been completed and are being managed by women from local communities under the supervision of FCC. This community-led approach to water management is expected to improve access to clean water while empowering women through economic participation.

FCC acknowledges that the responsibility for providing pipe-borne water to residents falls under the Guma Valley Water Company, which operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Water Resources. However, recognizing the urgent need for improved access, FCC is complementing these efforts by implementing targeted water projects in underserved areas.

With solar-powered water kiosks and a focus on community-driven solutions, FCC continues to push forward in its mission to ensure that water is not a source of division, but rather a unifying and empowering resource for all Freetown residents.