The Coca-Cola Foundation, through its Strengthening Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Service Delivery (S-WASH) initiative, has materially enhanced access to clean water for over 16,000 individuals in Borno State. In a formal statement, the Foundation disclosed that the S-WASH initiative was executed in partnership with the Global Environment & Technology Foundation and WaterAid. This collaborative effort entailed the rehabilitation of boreholes, the installation of handwashing stations, and the provision of specialized training for women and youths, with the purpose of promoting hygiene and ensuring the sustainable maintenance of water facilities. These activities, undertaken by both the Coca-Cola System and the Foundation, are executed in alignment with the objectives commemorated on World Water Day.
The Coca-Cola System and Foundation’s initiatives are closely aligned with the objectives of World Water Day. According to the United Nations, which designates March 22 annually as World Water Day, the observance aims to celebrate water and raise awareness about the roughly 2.2 billion people who lack access to safe water. Carlos Pagoaga, President of the Coca-Cola Foundation, affirmed that the project is part of the foundation’s broader efforts to enhance water security in Nigeria.
The Coca-Cola Foundation and the Coca-Cola System have strategically aligned their initiatives with the objectives of World Water Day. According to the United Nations, which commemorates March 22 as World Water Day, the event serves to celebrate water and highlight the plight of approximately 2.2 billion individuals who lack access to safe water.In a recent statement, President of the Coca-Cola Foundation, Carlos Pagoaga, asserted, “This water project is an example of our efforts to scale and accelerate access to safe drinking water and improve water security across Nigeria. We are grateful to work with local partners and communities to amplify our impact.”
In Borno State, an area beleaguered by severe water shortages that adversely affect health, education, and overall quality of life, the Foundation’s S-WASH initiative has been implemented with precision. The initiative has targeted six communities, two healthcare facilities, and one public school, thereby addressing critical local needs. At Gamboru Primary Healthcare Centre, healthcare officer Zainab Bulama observed that prior to the S-WASH intervention, the facility lacked access to clean water. With the rehabilitation of the borehole and the installation of handwashing stations, the centre can now effectively teach hygiene practices and ensure the provision of quality care.
Since 1984, the Coca-Cola Foundation has provided over $1.6 billion in grants globally. This substantial commitment underscores its enduring dedication to supporting communities in need, and it continues to pursue further initiatives to improve water security in Nigeria and beyond.#newsafro_
