International humanitarian organisation Life for Relief and Development has renewed attention on the challenges of accessing safe drinking water in Sierra Leone, warning that communities dependent on exposed water sources remain vulnerable to contamination.
In a message published on its social media platform on November 4, the organisation highlighted the risks facing rural communities where residents rely on unprotected water sources for their daily needs.
The organisation is encouraging donors to support the construction of water wells in underserved communities, describing access to clean water as essential to protecting public health and improving living conditions.
Life for Relief and Development has previously undertaken water infrastructure projects in Sierra Leone, including the construction of hand-pump wells in several communities.
In November and December 2025, the organisation completed water well projects in Kobaya and Kitonki villages near Lungi, in Port Loko District. According to the organisation, the facilities provide clean water to more than 2,000 residents.
It also constructed wells in Kissy Town, Waterloo, and Suctar Community in Lungi, extending access to safe drinking water to more than 1,600 people.
The projects were designed to reduce dependence on streams, swamps and other potentially contaminated sources while easing the burden on women and children who often travel long distances to collect water.
The issue remains a significant development concern in Sierra Leone. UNICEF reported in February 2026 that only 63 per cent of the country’s population had access to clean drinking water, with rural communities facing particularly difficult conditions.
Beyond the immediate health risks associated with unsafe water, inadequate access can affect children’s school attendance, household productivity and the overall wellbeing of vulnerable communities.
Life for Relief and Development says it hopes to extend its clean water interventions to more communities through donor support, as efforts continue to improve access to safe and reliable drinking water across the country.
