BOPOLU, GBARPOLU COUNTY — The Government of Liberia and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have dedicated modern solar-powered water facilities in Gbarpolu County, marking a $4 million milestone in efforts to expand clean water access and accelerate rural development.
The dedication ceremony, held at the Bopolu Youth Center, brought together national leaders, development partners, and local communities to celebrate what officials described as a “lifeline” for thousands of Liberians.
UNDP Resident Representative a.i. Louis Kuukpen said the facilities go beyond providing clean water — they represent “hope, resilience, and progress.”
“Access to clean and safe water is a basic human right and a cornerstone of dignity, health, and opportunity,” Kuukpen stressed. “These facilities will reduce waterborne diseases, improve hygiene, and free up time, especially for women and children, to pursue education, livelihoods, and personal growth.”
Part of a Bigger Vision: The ACDP
The facilities are part of the Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP), a flagship initiative of the Liberian government supported by UNDP and other partners. The program aims to transform rural communities through essential services, job creation, and reduced inequalities.
Under the ACDP, key achievements include:
- Establishment of 12 farmer-based organizations transformed into cooperatives.
- Distribution of 14 tractors, trailers, and processing equipment across six counties.
- Training of 148 cooperative members in governance and financial management.
- $20,000 startup grants issued to each cooperative.
- Donation of 16 Yamaha motorbikes to strengthen extension services.
- Distribution of over 4,000 kg of improved seeds to enhance food security.
- In health, seven ambulances deployed across seven counties, with 340 emergency transports recorded between July and December 2024.
Since 2023, more than $4 million has been invested in the ACDP, with $300,000 dedicated to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions.
Local Leaders Urge Ownership
Gbarpolu Superintendent Sam Zinnah welcomed the facilities as “a great blessing,” but urged residents to take ownership.
“This project is for us. We must take responsibility and maintain it,” he said. “We cannot allow something small to spoil and then wait for UNDP to come back and fix it.”
Senator Botoe Kanneh echoed the call for expansion, saying: “The UNDP is reaching the poorest communities, but we need more. This should not stop at Bopolu District.”
Government Reaffirms Commitment
Representing President Joseph N. Boakai, Patrick N. Sandikie, Deputy Managing Director for Technical Services at the Liberia Water & Sewer Corporation, described the facilities as aligned with the President’s ARRBST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).
“We are handing over health, dignity, and a brighter future,” Sandikie said. “But this is not just a gift — it is a shared responsibility. Chiefs, elders, women, and youth must take ownership of these facilities; they are yours.”
He urged communities to protect the systems from damage and misuse, stressing their sustainability as a model for other counties.
Sandikie reaffirmed President Boakai’s commitment to ending multidimensional poverty and inequality:
“The President believes the true wealth of our nation lies in the well-being of its people. Every Liberian deserves a life of dignity and opportunity.”
