#National News

Basse Area Council launches borehole water project for eight URR communities

Jun 26, 2026, 9:58 AM | Article By: Kawunding Camara, URR

The Basse Area Council has officially launched the first phase of its 2026 Upper River Region (URR) Water Project, delivering borehole facilities to eight communities in a bid to improve access to potable water across the region.

The beneficiary communities are Sare Samba Tacko, Sinchu Sura, Kantel Kunda, Sareh Alpha, Jakka Madina, Boro Kanda Kasseh, Sinchu Demba and Basse Kaba Kama.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Chairman of the Basse Area Council, Mahamadou Ceesay, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to implementing development projects that directly respond to community needs. He urged residents to take ownership of the facilities and ensure proper maintenance to guarantee sustainability and long-term benefits.

“The success of this project depends on how well the communities manage and protect these facilities,” he said.

Deputy Governor of the Upper River Region, Lamin Jaiteh, commended the council for the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that will significantly improve the living conditions of residents in the beneficiary communities.

Chief Executive Officer of the Basse Area Council, Momodou Sambou, disclosed that the eight boreholes were fully funded by the council through the leadership of the Chairman, the General Council and the support of council staff. He noted that the project reflects the council’s determination to address the basic needs of the people.

The Alkalo of Basse, Sellou Bah, also praised the council for what he described as remarkable progress in governance and service delivery. He highlighted improvements in staff welfare, regular salary payments and enhanced administrative efficiency under the current leadership.

Representatives of the beneficiary communities expressed gratitude for the project. Mariama Jawo of Sare Samba Tacko and Aja spoke of the challenges their communities had faced due to water shortages and welcomed the boreholes as a solution that would ease the burden, particularly on women and children.

The borehole water project is expected to improve access to clean drinking water, strengthen sanitation and hygiene practices, and contribute to the socio-economic development of the eight beneficiary communities in the Upper River Region.

The initiative forms part of the Basse Area Council’s broader efforts to improve public services and promote sustainable community development across the region.