The Ike Odoeme Foundation has again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to grassroots development with the successful commissioning of a clean water borehole in Umuakpa Onicha Uboma, Ihitte/Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State. The project, executed under the Foundation’s CleanWater Initiative, aims to ensure access to safe and potable water in underserved rural communities.
The facility, officially unveiled in June 2025, is dedicated to the people of Umuakpa Onicha Uboma and brings to an end years of hardship caused by the absence of accessible clean water in the area. The commissioning was carried out by the Executive Director of the Ike Odoeme Foundation, Sylvie Marie, who represented the organisation at the event.
Speaking during the ceremony, Sylvie Marie described the project as part of the Foundation’s broader commitment to health, dignity, and sustainable development.
“This borehole is more than a water source. It is a commitment to health, dignity, and progress. We believe that every community deserves access to clean water as a basic human right,” she said.
She reminded the people that the water is not for the Foundation, but for them, and urged them to take full responsibility for safeguarding it.
“This water is not for the Ike Odoeme Foundation, it is yours. You must protect it, use it wisely, and ensure that it serves generations after you. When you protect this water, you are protecting your own health and future,” she added.
The gesture was met with overwhelming joy from the residents, many of whom described the borehole as the fulfilment of a long-awaited dream. Community leaders recalled that, over the years, several government representatives had made promises to provide water, yet none had been fulfilled until now.
A key highlight of the borehole project is its solar-powered mechanism, deliberately chosen to eliminate the community’s longstanding dependence on fuel-powered generators for water pumping.
This innovation not only relieves residents of the recurring cost and burden of buying fuel but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the water supply.
In addition, the adoption of solar technology aligns with broader environmental protection goals by reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean, renewable energy. The initiative represents a shift towards more eco-friendly infrastructure in rural development efforts.
Nze Uwadoka Aaron, Secretary of the Eze’s Palace, expressed his gratitude and relief:
“We have heard promises for years, but this is the first time someone has actually delivered. The Ike Odoeme Foundation has done what many in government could not do for decades.”
Chief Okoro Joseph, a respected elder in the community, said the borehole is not just a source of water but a symbol of hope and renewed trust.
“This shows we have not been forgotten. Our people can now drink clean water without trekking long distances or depending on unsafe streams.”
Mr. Emeka Egonu, Chairman of Umuakpa, described the day as historic:
“The Ike Odoeme Foundation has made history in this village. They have given us water, and we will not forget this.”
Ogu Princewill the youth leader of the community, and Mrs. Mercy Ike, the woman leader, also shared their excitement.
“Water is life,” said Mrs. Ike. “This borehole will ease the suffering of our women who wake up early and walk long distances to fetch water. We are truly grateful.”
The event was marked by songs of joy, prayers, and dancing, as residents celebrated what they called a life-changing intervention. The community pledged to protect and maintain the borehole as a treasured shared resource
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