By Sabri Dibaco
Residents of Gangura have welcomed a new borehole project expected to be drilled by the Rural Development Action (RDA), describing it as a major step toward addressing the long-standing water crisis in the area.
Speaking to the No. 1 Citizen Newspaper, Gangura representative in parliament, Biko Bage James, said the project will greatly reduce the burden faced by residents, especially women and children, who often walk long distances in search of clean drinking water.
According to Bage, many communities in Gangura are located far from reliable water sources, making access to safe water a daily challenge.
“The borehole that RDA is going to drill in Gangura is going to help a lot because people have difficulty accessing water. They walk long distances just to get water they can drink, and this project has brought the water closer to the people,” Bage said.
The lawmaker praised development organisations for extending support to rural communities and encouraged more interventions in the area, particularly in infrastructure development.
He highlighted the poor condition of the Uze Bridge, describing it as unsafe and a major obstacle for farmers transporting produce from farms to markets.
“The bridge is not safe for anybody. Farmers struggle a lot when returning with their goods from the farms. I feel the bridge is something very important that needs to be worked upon,” Bage noted.
He added that improving the bridge would ease transportation and strengthen economic activities in the area by connecting farming communities more effectively.
The announcement of the borehole project was reportedly met with excitement from residents; community members warmly welcomed the initiative during an opening ceremony organised by RDA.
“Everybody was very excited, and the idea was welcomed. They even formed a committee that will oversee the cleaning and protection of the borehole area. This shows they are ready to own and protect the project,” Bage explained.
Although the borehole drilling has not yet begun, preparations are underway, with residents expressing optimism that the project will improve living conditions in the area.
Bage encouraged citizens to remain hopeful despite the current hardships facing communities across the country.
“We are in a difficult time right now, and sometimes it is not easy, but I encourage everybody to keep hope and know that there are still people looking forward to helping in any way possible,” Bage said.