Ashanti Region: Abenase Residents Get Access To Water After Years Of Neglect

After enduring years without reliable access to clean water, residents of Abenase in Ghana’s Ashanti Region are now celebrating a significant milestone: the introduction of a piped water system that promises to transform daily life.

This development follows a concerted effort by local leaders, including Chief Nana Dr. Akuoko Boateng and Assemblyman Adom Saahene, who spearheaded the commissioning of new boreholes and the expansion of pipelines directly to households. This initiative aims to achieve 80% coverage by 2025, marking a significant step toward addressing long-standing water scarcity in the area.

The impact on the community has been profound. Children who previously spent hours fetching water can now attend school consistently, and adults report increased productivity in farming and trade. Health workers have noted a sharp decline in waterborne illnesses since the switch to treated water, underscoring the health benefits of the new system.

While some households remain unconnected and maintenance costs present ongoing challenges, the success of Abenase’s water project offers a blueprint for neighboring villages facing similar issues. The community’s proactive approach demonstrates the potential for local initiatives to make significant strides in improving access to essential resources.

As Abenase adapts to this newfound convenience, broader shifts are emerging. Small businesses are flourishing with reduced water-fetching burdens, teachers note improved student attendance, and clinic workers report fewer cases of diarrhea. These changes highlight the far-reaching benefits of access to clean water and the importance of continued investment in such infrastructure.