Paynesville – In a significant step toward addressing the water and sanitation crisis in schools, FACE Africa has commissioned a large-scale solar-powered rainwater harvesting system for the Kendeja Elementary and Junior High School in Paynesville.
By: Yawah Y. Jaivey
The intervention includes a 7,000-gallon clean drinking water system, renovated latrines, and a comprehensive health, hygiene, and menstrual hygiene training program, targeting both students and community members.
The project was carried out in partnership with the Kids Educational Engagement Project (KEEP) and primarily funded by The Niraj Bhatia Foundation. Mr. Niraj R. Bhatia, along with his colleague Mr. Andre Saint Kelly, traveled from the United States to participate in the April 8 dedication ceremony.
According to FACE Africa’s Field Program Manager, Samuel Gorgbor, the project was a direct response to the school’s critical water shortage, which had negatively impacted enrollment—especially for female students.
“Girls were staying home during their menstrual cycles due to the lack of clean water and sanitation. After KEEP Liberia reached out, we conducted an assessment and acted swiftly,” Gorgbor explained.
The system consists of a 400-foot-deep borehole drilled by Duke & Associates, a solar-powered submersible pump installed by West Coast Energy, and a large rainwater collection system installed by Abundant Rain.
In addition to the water system, FACE Africa formed a 40-member WASH Committee comprising teachers, students, and community members. The committee underwent a six-week training covering sanitation, hygiene, sexual and gender-based violence prevention, and facility maintenance to ensure the sustainability of the project.
FACE Africa also ran a dedicated women’s health component, which trained 45 women and girls on menstrual and reproductive health.
“Our goal is to empower women to take initiative and leadership roles in their communities,” said FACE Africa’s WASH Trainer, Mrs. Sylvia N. Solo.
The school’s principal, Mr. Christian G. Barchue, praised the organization’s effort: “This project is a blessing. It will keep our students healthy and in school, especially our girls who were most affected.”
In a message delivered through a proxy, FACE Africa’s Founder and President, Mrs. Saran Kaba Jones, said, “This project is about more than water. It’s about dignity and access to a basic human right.”
FACE Africa Executive Director, Ms. Pauline V. Egan, emphasized the life-changing nature of the project in her keynote address. “This system is your treasure. Care for it, protect it, and it will serve generations to come,” she told the school community.
The dedication event drew several prominent education and local officials, including Montserrado County Education Officer Amanda W. Zota, District Education Officer Alfreda G. Sleweon, and County Superintendent Whroway Bryant.
Also present were representatives from partner organizations, including Mr. Amos Doe of KEEP Liberia, Ms. Joelle Gordon and Mr. Chris Botha of Abundant Rain, and Mr. John Aggrey of Duke & Associates.
The event concluded with emotional speeches and a renewed sense of hope for the students and residents of the Kendeja community.
The primary funder, Mr Bhatia shared, “I’m only excited for the future and the huge impact we can continue to make here in Liberia. Together, we can change the world. Thank you for one of the best days of my life.”
