From the Blue Community NEWARI – Network of Water Rights Initiatives in Enugu State, Nigeria: November 25, 2024, marks the 1-year anniversary of Enugu Water Day, a milestone that was supposed to herald a new era of access to clean and potable water for residents of Enugu Metropolis. While the Enugu State Government has made significant strides in rehabilitating the 9th mile scheme to boost water production, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Despite the progress, many homes across Enugu Metropolis still lack access to running water, leaving residents to rely on alternative and often expensive sources.
Progress Made:
The rehabilitation of the 9th mile scheme is a notable achievement that deserves commendation. This effort has the potential to increase water production and supply to homes across the metropolis. In addition, the government made water supply, a priority in its 2024 budgetary allocations. However, the impact of this progress is yet to be felt by many residents.
Challenges Persist:
Despite the progress made, the taps in most homes across Enugu Metropolis remain dry. This is a stark reminder that there is still much work to be done to ensure that residents have access to clean and potable water. The lack of access to running water has significant implications for public health, economic productivity, and overall quality of life.
Call to Action:
As we mark the 1-year anniversary of #EnuguWaterDay, we urge the Enugu State Government to:
- 1. Increase transparency and accountability in the water sector by assessing and making public, the performance of the state’s 2024 budget, as it relates to the water, sanitation and hygiene sector.
- 2. Provide regular updates on the progress made and challenges in rehabilitating the water infrastructures. This includes updates on replacement and laying of new pipes for potable water reticulation to homes of Enugu residents.
- 3. Engage with residents and stakeholders to understand their needs and concerns through Town Hall Meetings.
The 1-year anniversary of #EnuguWaterDay is a mixed bag of progress and challenges. We hope that the Enugu State Government will take concrete steps to sustain the gains made and address the challenges, while ensuring that residents have access to clean and potable water.
