Oxfam points finger to weak government policies for water crisis

Weak government policies have been identified as reason for the water crisis in Nigeria and both public and private sector organisations have been called upon to recognize the crisis which is currently confronting the country as a reflection of failed governance.
The crisis needs urgent attention, hence efforts should be made to invest in building communities capacity on sustainable water management and resilience to climate change.
At the commissioning of Oxfam/Guinness Community Water Project in Tyowanye, Buruku Local Government, Benue State, Head of Programmes, Oxfam in Nigeria, Constant Tchona, noted that water was an essential life block builder, adding that it was required to quench thirst or protect health.
“Water is vital for creating jobs and supporting economic, social and human development,” Tchona added.
It is hoped that the newly commissioned water project will reduce the hardship faced by about 1, 500 families in the community, 60 percent of which are women, young girls and children, in accessing and collecting water.
The self-sustaining motorized solar borehole and VIP toilet will help improve access to safe water as well as improve sanitary condition of the area.
Benue State governor, amuel Ortom, who commissioned the water project called on other good spirited organisations and individuals to emulate Oxfam and Guinness by complementing government efforts to eradicate poverty in the country.
“Water is life. That’s why we appreciate you for giving our people life. This is a welcome development for us as a people and as a government,” said Otorm, adding that his state would provide enabling environment for investors and development partners who wish to do business in the state and improve livelihood.
The Managing Director, Guinness Nigeria , Peter Ndegwa, said that the water project was part of his company’s Water of Life Programme aimed at providing safe drinking water for a million people yearly in Africa.
The programme, according to him, has delivered water to 10 million people in 18 African countries since 2007, with about 33 communities having benefited from the programme in Nigeria.