From Okwe Obi, Abuja
In a bid to tackle open defecation, the Women Farmers Advancement Network (WOFAN) has provided solar-powered boreholes and renovated two major mosques in Kwanar Dangora, Bebeji Local Government Area, and in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State.
The projects include the joint partnership between community and the WOFAN ICON2 Project in the construction of toilets to reduce open defecation, installation of solar-powered boreholes, provision of solar lighting, supply of carpets, and other essential facilities to ease access to safe drinking water and enhance worship and community activities.
WOFAN’s Executive Director, Dr. Salamatu Garba, in a statement at the weekend, urged the committees to ensure proper maintenance and security of the facilities.
Garba, represented by Alhaji Rabiu Sule, said: “We are here on behalf of the WOFAN ICON2 project to officially hand over these facilities to you.
“These facilities are provided to improve access to safe drinking water and enhance sanitation, hygiene and promote inclusion and cooperation. Your communities now have solar-powered boreholes, toilets, and worship centers which will enhance community wellbeing, togetherness and mutual growth. We urge you to take good care of the facilities and protect them against any damage.”
She said each solar-powered borehole is equipped with 21 water points, which will meet the water needs of the communities and their schools.
“It will ease the hardship faced by children, who were previously prevented from attending school due to water scarcity, thereby reducing the number of out-of-school children. And the boreholes will serve the needs of millions of people in the community.”
She also said the worship centers will serve as central point for travelers and provide services to both the local community and visitors, especially commodity traders visiting the WOFAN marketing hubs.
“Since the worship centers are close to the WOFAN marketing centers, they will benefit farmers and traders by providing access to water, sanitation facilities, and a place for prayers.”
The District Head of Bebeji, Alhaji Yusuf Bayero, thanked the WOFAN- ICON2 project for the gesture, praising her continuous humanitarian work and bringing the sense of project ownership and maintenance for sustainability.
“On behalf of the good people of Bebeji, I thank the country project Director, Dr. Salamatu Garba for this initiative
“We are aware of the great work you have been doing for our people. We pray to Allah to bless you, grant you paradise, and reward you abundantly,” she said.
Also, District Head, Alhaji Lami Abubakar Bayero, represented by Usman Abdulmalik, thanked WOFAN’s chairperson for her support, praying for the continued growth and global recognition of the organization.
Similarly, the Chief Imam of Imawa Juma’a Mosque, Sama’ila Dauda, appreciated Dr. Garba’s intervention and prayed for Allah’s guidance in all her endeavors.