Biekanateng, Wa Western District, Upper West Region

Murky water coming out of a deep dug out in the dry riverbed is the only source of water for the people of Beikanateng especially during the 7-month long dry season, while rain is the source of the 5-month long wet season. It is hard to imagine that about 337 people in a far-flung village in the middle of the Wa West District in the Upper West Region of Ghana in West Africa lies a community that was denied one of the basic needs of life-potable water. A mainly subsistence farming community have been crying for safe potable water for over 50 years. Their demand for water fell into their leaders’ deaf ears and blind eyes.

“We seem forgotten, maybe they think we are not humans here, that is why they don’t come to help us,” lamented Amora Saanjori, chief of the community.

All types of skin rashes, cholera and typhoid are prevalent in the community. The meagre savings they got from their small farms are spent on medication which was caused by water-borne diseases and due to these issues, the children have high irregular attendance in school. With no amenities and facilities in the community, there is a high mortality rate.

Their demand for water got a glimmer of hope when Ghana Outlook local partner, Sahara Advocates of Change visited the community after hearing the cry of the Assembly member of the area. The community was suggested to Ghana Outlook for intervention as the need for the potable water is an urgent plea for the people of Beikanateng to have a dignified way to live their lives.

A team of 6 people have been walking the National Three peaks, that is Ben Nevis (Scotland), Scarfell (England) and Snowdon (Wales) to help try and raise funds to provide a borehole for this community. The walk and climbing of the three peaks take place in the first week of May, and must be done in 24 hrs. Please help us to provide this essential safe water borehole, by donating directly via the instructions on our donation page or via the JustGiving page for this challenge.