You might have heard, “Water is life!” This couldn’t be further from the truth as water hoarding or diverting it has led to wars between nations. Its shortage anywhere creates a serious health hazard on those living in those places.
Knowing the importance of water to one’s dignity, Indian businessman Upjit Singh Sachdeva, who is more famously known in Liberia as “Mr. Jeety,” has launched a significant drilling project aimed at alleviating the water crisis at the Monrovia Central Prison (MCP), also referred to as ‘South Beach’.
This landmark initiative, which coincides with Jeety’s 59th birthday, is aimed at providing clean, pipe-borne water access to the already challenged prison facility, holding over 1,549 inmates.
MCP, like all other correctional facilities in Liberia, faces chronic water problem, impacting the health and well-being of inmates. The lack of clean water has been a pressing issue, leading to concerns over sanitation and hygiene within the prison walls.
Known, for his continuous philanthropic efforts, coupled with recognizing the urgent need for intervention, Jeety, who has made a name for himself in various industries, including the selling of building materials, offering real estate, processing and purchasing natural rubber, decided to take action.
The drilling project, which is expected to be completed within the next few weeks, will tap into underground water sources, providing a reliable supply of clean, pipe-borne water for drinking, cooking, and other essential usages.
The initiative is being carried out by Senan Group Ltd Borehole Drilling and Construction Company through the support of Jeety and his team, ensuring that the project meets the highest standards of safety and sustainability.
In addition to the drilling project, the Indian philanthropist also served 1,549 inmates with hot meals, ensuring that they receive nutritious meals, while serving their sentences or awaiting trials, addressing the broader issues of food insecurity within the prison.
During a ceremony held at the prison on Thursday, April 24, Jeety expressed his commitment to improving the living conditions of the inmates; adding: “Every individual deserves access to necessities, including clean water.”
“So, on this special day, I want to give back to God Almighty for his continuous blessing upon my life. As such, I am grateful to celebrate another birthday and ensure that these individuals have the resources they need to live with dignity,” he noted.
Jeety added, “Water is a basic human right, and regardless of inmates’ circumstances, every individual deserves access to clean water. As such, this is just my small way of supporting and uplifting the vulnerable segments of the Liberian society.”
In response, the Monrovia Central Prison Superintendent, Roosevelt Varney welcomed Jeety’s efforts, thus highlighting the positive impact that such initiatives can have on the rehabilitation of inmates.”
Superintendent Varney further expressed his gratitude, on behalf of the Justice Minister and his Deputies, for Jeety’s continuous support towards addressing the government’s efforts to better the lives of the citizenry.
“Access to clean water and proper nutrition is essential for the health and well-being of our inmates. So, we are grateful for Mr. Jeety’s generosity and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in our care.
“Again, Jeety has been a pillar of support for us. His contributions have significantly improved the welfare of our inmates, and we are immensely thankful for his unwavering commitment and support as always,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jeety’s philanthropic endeavors are not new; he has a history of supporting various charitable causes in Liberia, as his commitment to humanity has earned him respect and admiration in both business and humanitarian circles.
This latest initiative at the Monrovia Central Prison is a testament to his belief in giving back to society and making a tangible difference in the lives of those less fortunate since launching his hot-cooked meal initiative in 2017.
As the drilling project gets underway, the hope is that it will serve as a model for similar initiatives across other prison facilities, addressing the critical issue of water scarcity in correctional facilities and beyond.
In a world where access to clean water remains a challenge for many, Jeety’s initiative at South Beach, as the MCP is also referred to, stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that one person’s commitment can lead to meaningful change in the lives of many.
Providing Food for the Inmates
The Indian businessman and philanthropist also provided hot, cooked meal for all the inmates. Along with the rice and beans soup, he provided soda (soft drink) and water. He himself served the food to the inmates.
