By Jerromie S. Walters
Relief comes to the hundreds of residents of Block D in Cooper Farm Community, Rehab, Liberia, following the dedication of their first modern water system. The project, spearheaded by Liberia’s former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor, was officially handed over to the community on Sunday, May 18, 2025.
The initiative fulfills a promise made by Madam Taylor during her 2023 election campaign. At the time, she was shocked to learn that residents had to walk 30 minutes to access clean water. “I am happy that we have completed this project and turned it over to the community,” she said during the dedication ceremony.
Madam Taylor emphasized that this is just one of many similar projects she has undertaken across Liberia. Despite no longer holding government office, she remains committed to improving living conditions for citizens. “This is part of my ongoing efforts to ensure communities have access to basic necessities,” she added.
The water system was constructed in partnership Center for Humanitarian Activities in Africa (Liberia), a Turkish engineering company with a strong presence across Africa. Former VP Taylor revealed that she first engaged the company in 2022, before the elections. “They have built wells in Bong County, Margibi, and many other parts of Liberia. Their work is recognizable by its unique design,” she explained.
Zizi Howard Jr., the Block Youth Chair, praised Madam Taylor for keeping her word despite the political outcome of the 2023 elections. “She still pushed for this project, and today we are benefiting from this beautiful system,” he said. Howard also expressed gratitude to the landowners, engineers, and community youth for their support.
Santigie Sasay, an engineer with the Center for Humanitarian Activities in Africa (Liberia), highlighted Madam Taylor’s dedication to seeing the project through. Though his team had completed their initial assignments in Bong County, he said her persistence ensured the Cooper Farm initiative came to fruition.
Sasay stressed the significance of proper maintenance to sustain the water system. “This facility will only last if the community manages it well,” he cautioned. He also hinted at future projects but noted their success depends on how this one is maintained.
Elton Johns, a prominent resident, described the day as historic for Cooper Farm. “Today brings so much joy and excitement to all of us,” he said. Johns urged his fellow community members to take ownership of the project. “Don’t sit back and allow this system to fall into disrepair,” he pleaded.
The new water system is expected to serve hundreds of residents, drastically reducing the time and effort previously spent fetching water. For most of the residents, this marks the end of years of hardship and the beginning of a more convenient and healthier lifestyle. They believe that Madam Taylor’s initiative indicates how post-government leaders can still drive meaningful change.
