©AfreePress-(Lomé, october 31, 2023)-Despite the government’s efforts to improve access to clean water, the Savannah Region still lacked the necessary water supply. Kadjatieri, Nadjouanou, and Pligou were among the communities facing this situation, but thanks to the initiative of Honorable Noël De Poukn, they now have abundant access to clean water year-round.
In a region often challenged by water scarcity, the villages of Kadjatieri, Nadjouanou, and Pligou, located in the Savannah Region, have experienced an exceptional and unforgettable year in 2022, thanks to their native son, Deputee Noël De Poukn, originally from the Oti Prefecture. Faced with the difficulties in accessing drinking water that the populations of these villages were experiencing, he personally oversaw the construction and solemn delivery of several high-capacity wells to these communities. This act of generosity brought significant relief to the residents of these areas who had been forced to collect water from rivers for their water needs for many years.
Noël De Poukn, on that occasion, emphasized that his gesture was in response to the needs of these populations and was in perfect alignment with the government’s social mission. As a deputy from Oti, he underscored that elected officials should serve the entire nation, regardless of their prefecture of origin. This is an inspiring example of community leadership and responsibility to the people.
« Before, we had to fetch water from the river, which made our children sick. We suffered greatly in our community, and we drank dirty water, » said Lamboni Gladys, one of the beneficiaries. « Previously, our children couldn’t go to school because of the water problem, » added Lamboni Koudougue, another beneficiary.
Finally, the lives of these populations have changed. They now have access to clean water. « Thanks to Honorable Noël De Poukn, who provided us with this well, we no longer suffer from water scarcity, and we enjoy better health, » said Laré Yendougoini, the neighborhood chief.
This project goes beyond the mere provision of water. It also aims to raise awareness among the beneficiary populations about the importance of sanitation, promote hygiene, and encourage responsible water management. The primary goal, according to the initiator, is to improve the living standards of these communities by providing them with continuous access to clean water.
In addition to well construction, Noël De Poukn also established management committees to ensure the proper maintenance of these facilities. He even provided a grant of 100,000 francs to the management committees to ensure the sustainability of these wells.
« This well has greatly benefited our village. Today, we drink clean water, which ensures our health and reduces the worries of our women. We have a fund managed by the community, which allows us to repair the well in case of a breakdown. Furthermore, the deputy has provided us with a grant of 100,000 F to address any potential issues, » Laré Yendougoini explained.
At that time, the residents of Kadjatieri, Nadjouanou, and Pligou expressed their deep gratitude to the generous donor and promised to manage these valuable resources responsibly. These projects, they say, testify to the significant change in their daily lives due to access to clean water.
These acts of generosity have transformed the lives of thousands of people in the Savannah Region. These populations also expressed hope that other needs, such as electricity and a health center, can be addressed in the future.
In a world where political leadership is often criticized, Noël De Poukn represents a positive example of the positive impact an elected official can have on their community. His dedication to the well-being of the Savannah Region’s populations serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of political responsibility and generosity to those in greatest need.
Olivier ADJA
