Monrovia, Liberia – Thousands of rural residents in Gbarpolu and Rivercess Counties are set to gain access to safe drinking water as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), under the Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP), formally hands over four solar-powered water facilities valued at US$334,847.28.
The handover ceremonies are scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, in Bopolu, Gbarpolu County, and Tuesday, September 30, in Yarkpah Town, Rivercess County. Beneficiary communities include Mardina, Totoquelleh, and Bopolu in Gbarpolu and Yarkpah Town in Rivercess.
Each facility is designed to serve approximately 8,000 residents, providing a sustainable supply of clean water through solar-powered pumping systems connected to multiple kiosks and water points. In addition, chlorination units have been installed to ensure water purification and curb the spread of waterborne diseases—longstanding threats in communities that previously relied on contaminated creeks and streams.
Beyond improving public health, the water systems also address a critical security issue. Women and girls, who often faced long and dangerous treks to fetch water, will now have safe and nearby access. The shift reduces exposure to risks of gender-based violence while easing the daily burden of securing clean water.
The handover events will be attended by senior government officials, development partners, civil society organizations, local leaders, and community members. UNDP described the initiative as part of its broader partnership with the Government of Liberia to accelerate development in underserved rural areas and strengthen resilience in line with the country’s national development agenda.
