IMO STATE GOVERNMENT UNDER NG-SURWASH PARTNER TO IMPROVE WASH IN 55 PRIMARY HEALTHCARE CENTRES
Imo State and NG-SURWASH are constructing solar-powered boreholes in 55 PHCs to improve access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene services.
The Imo State Government under the Nigeria Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Programme (NG-SURWASH), has commenced the construction of solar-powered boreholes in 55 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) across the state to improve access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene services.
The intervention targets priority Local Government Areas and is being implemented through the Imo State Water and Sewerage Corporation (ISWSC), Imo State Small Town Water and Sanitation Agency (ISSTOWA), and Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA).
The projects include solar-powered boreholes, water storage facilities and tank stands to ensure reliable water supply, improve hygiene practices, strengthen infection prevention and control, and create safer environments for patients and healthcare workers.
Speaking during a site visit to Okwu Emeke Primary Healthcare Centre in Emekuku, Owerri North LGA, the Officer-in-Charge, Mrs Uzoma Chinyere, expressed appreciation for the intervention, noting that inadequate water supply had made sanitation and hygiene activities difficult.
“We have faced many challenges because of the lack of clean water. This intervention will enable us to carry out sanitation and hygiene activities more effectively. We thank the Governor of Imo State and SURWASH for this support,” she said.
The initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation and SDG 3 on good health and well-being. It also supports the Imo State Government’s efforts under Governor Hope Uzodimma to strengthen WASH infrastructure and improve public service delivery.
Upon completion and effective operation, the facilities are expected to enhance water availability, improve hygiene standards and contribute to safer, more efficient primary healthcare services across Imo State. Sustained maintenance and proper management will be essential to preserving these investments and ensuring long-term benefits for communities.
By Paschal Opara