By Faith Madogwe & Best Iyabo
The Eyara Community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State was a hub of celebration on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, as residents gathered to witness the commissioning of the refurbished Eyara Community Central Water Board. The landmark project, executed by the Netherlands-based Non-Governmental Organization (NGO), Legionnaire for Mankind’s Health, has alleviated months of water scarcity that had affected the daily lives of the people.
In his opening remarks, the President General of Eyara Community, Mr. Gbogbo Tawarien, expressed the community’s gratitude to the organization for its intervention. He noted that access to clean water is fundamental to life and essential for socioeconomic development. “For the past few months, Eyara community was shut out of access to potable water supply until Legionnaire for Mankind’s Health Organization came to our rescue by renovating all segments of the water system,” he said.
Mr. Tawarien assured the organization of the community’s commitment to preserving the facility. “We will secure these facilities to ensure their functionality at all times,” he stated, adding, “As Oliver Twist, we humbly ask for more projects to further develop our community.”
A SYMBOL OF HOPE
Speaking on behalf of the Legionnaire for Mankind’s Health Organization, the Local Organizing Officer, Mr. Patrick O. Padiayefagha, described the project as a beacon of hope. “This water board is more than just infrastructure; it is a symbol of health, opportunity, and what can be achieved through collective effort,” he stated.
Mr. Padiayefagha highlighted the organization’s mission to ensure access to clean water in underserved communities, emphasizing that clean water is a fundamental human right. He expressed appreciation to the organization’s Executive Director and Founder, Prof. Dr. Josef Ernst Franzek, for his unwavering support and vision. “Dr. Franzek’s kind heart has brought joy to countless families, and his vision inspires us to create a brighter future for a7ll,” he said.
Delivering a message from Dr. Franzek, Padiayefagha conveyed, “The force with the power of love is with you all. Strengthen your future for the sake of your children.”
CELEBRATING THE IMPACT
The event, which began at the community town hall, featured traditional rituals such as the breaking of kola nuts and cultural entertainment. Residents and representatives from the Legionnaire for Mankind’s Health Organization participated in the ceremony, exchanging goodwill gestures. The organization presented cash gifts to the oldest man and woman in the community, while the Eyara people gifted the team a live ram in appreciation.
Residents expressed their joy at the life-changing project. Mr. Samuel Kokerho, an elder in the community, shared his gratitude: “Before this project, we had to trek long distances to fetch water, often from unsafe sources. Today, I am happy because water is now available right at our doorstep. God will bless everyone who made this possible.”
Mr. Tawarien further elaborated on the significance of the project in an interview, saying, “This intervention has ended the nightmare of trekking long distances for unclean water. Over 56 fetching points have been restored across the community, ensuring that every household has access to clean water nearby. It has truly transformed our lives.”
OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
In an exclusive interview with GbaramatuVoice, Mr. Patrick Padiayefagha revealed the challenges encountered during the renovation process. “When we began, we realized the submersible pumping machine was faulty, and over 56 fetching points were non-functional. We had to replace the machine and repair the points. However, we see these challenges not as setbacks but as opportunities to fulfill our mission,” he explained.
He affirmed that the organization’s dedication to providing safe water for rural communities drives their projects. “When the people are happy, we are happy,” Padiayefagha said.
A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR EYARA
The refurbished Eyara Community Central Water Board is now expected to serve hundreds of households, providing clean water for drinking, cooking, and other daily needs. The project has not only improved living conditions but has also restored hope and dignity to the Eyara community.
As the residents look forward to a better future, they remain deeply appreciative of the Legionnaire for Mankind’s Health Organization for bringing much-needed relief to their lives. The event serves as a testament to the power of partnership and shared purpose in transforming lives.
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