By: Guma Valley Water Company Communications Unit
Freetown, Sierra Leone – July 28, 2026 – The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr. Hannah Isatta Sao‑Kpato Macarthy, has hailed Guma Valley Water Company for successfully completing major water infrastructure projects that promise to transform potable water supply across the Western Area.
Dr. Macarthy, who also chairs the Steering Committee of the Freetown WASH and Aquatic Environment Revamping Project (WASHAERP), made the remarks during an inspection tour of the Babadorie Raw Water Storage Facility at Regent and the Allen Town Water Treatment Plant. The facilities are scheduled for official commissioning by President Julius Maada Bio in the coming weeks.
Transformational Projects
The Minister described the projects as “a significant milestone” in government’s drive to expand access to safe drinking water. Communities such as Allen Town, Regent, Babadorie, Gloucester, Leicester, IMATT and Hill Station have long faced water shortages, particularly during the dry season.
At Babadorie, rehabilitation works increased the reservoir’s capacity from 60,000 to 72,000 cubic metres, while nine new steel tanks added another 60,000 cubic metres. The total raw water storage capacity now stands at 132,000 cubic metres, serving an estimated 90,000 residents in mountain communities.
At Allen Town, the upgraded treatment plant now produces 7,000 cubic metres of treated water daily, supported by a 12.84‑kilometre distribution network and over 1,500 new household connections.
Minister’s Reflections
Dr. Macarthy praised the engineers and technicians for their professionalism and dedication, noting that the projects will substantially reduce seasonal shortages and improve reliability of supply.
“Water supply is much more than simply delivering water to people’s homes,” she said. “It requires technical expertise, skilled engineers, dedicated technicians and effective management.”
She reaffirmed her confidence in the quality of Guma water, describing it as “one of the safest sources of drinking water available,” and urged customers to pay bills promptly to sustain service delivery.
Government Commitment
The Minister concluded her tour by commending the project team and reaffirming the Steering Committee’s commitment to regular monitoring. She stressed that the investments under WASHAERP reflect government’s determination to strengthen Sierra Leone’s water infrastructure and improve the quality of life for thousands of residents.
The projects will be officially commissioned by President Bio, marking a major step forward in Sierra Leone’s water security agenda.