Media Matters for Women Provides Borehole Water Well for Matainkay Community

Written by Josephine Kamara

For more than a decade, residents of Matainkay Community in the Western Area Rural District have struggled without access to clean and safe drinking water. Women and girls often faced intimidation and fear while fetching water from the forest at Kamara Street. Their only available source, a stream known as Yainkain Wata, was heavily contaminated. As a result, families were forced to buy clean water from the neighboring village of Massantigie.

After years of community appeals, Media Matters for Women (MMW) has stepped in to address this urgent need. With support from its donor partners, MMW facilitated the construction of a borehole water well, which was officially handed over to the people of Matainkay on 7 November 2025.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Community Headman Abass Kabia expressed deep appreciation to MMW for responding to their long-standing water challenge.

“We are truly grateful for the water well. The only issue is that, for now, it is best suited for laundry and bathing, as the water produces rust when it settles. We understand this may be due to the land, but we are still thankful to finally have our own source. We hope a solution will come soon so it can be safe for cooking and drinking,” he said.

Deputy Headman Basiru Bangura also commended MMW’s consistent support to the community.

“MMW has always been a strong development partner here. As one of their awardees, the certificate I received from MMW has even increased my recognition everywhere I go,” he shared.

Responding to the community’s concerns, MMW Program Director, Alinah Kallon, reaffirmed the organization’s ongoing commitment to ensure the well remains safe and functional.

“MMW will continue to support the maintenance of this facility. We will supply chlorine every six months for treatment, and we encourage all residents to boil the water before use,” she advised.

The new borehole water well marks another milestone in Media Matters for Women’s ongoing efforts to empower and uplift rural communities through sustainable development and access to essential services.